Sampling
This study used 245 serum samples from four species of native NP
(C. imitator , A. palliata , A. geoffroyi andS. oerstedii ) collected throughout Costa Rica in 2000-2015 as
part of the project “Epidemiological, genetic, ethological and habitat
studies in Costa Rica’s monkeys” (Resolution 27-2013- National System
of Conservation Areas, Figure 1.A.). Of the 245 NP, 198 were wild and 47
were in captivity. Most samples from captive animals came from three
rescue centers, although 12 different sites were sampled. NP were
anesthesized using IM injection of 3.3-11mg/kg of Zoletil 50® or 5-20
mg/kg ketamine with 0.5-2 mg/kg xylazine (Glander et al., 1991; Varela,
2006; West et al., 2007), which for wild NP was loaded into darts
(PneuDart. Inc, Type P, 1cc) and delivered using a compressed gas rifle
(PneuDart. Inc, model X-Caliber Gauged CO2) targeting the lateral
triceps and quadriceps femoris (Glander et al., 1991). After an
individual was anesthetized, blood was sampled from the femoral vein and
placed into a cooler at 4°C. Once in the laboratory, samples were
centrifuged at 2500 RPM for 5 minutes to separate serum, which was
transferred to sterile 1.5ml tubes at -20°C until processed. Animals
underwent a physical examination and were released upon awakening from
anesthesia.