The function of geophagy in Nepal gray langurs: Sodium acquisition rather than detoxification or prevention of acidosis

DiscussionThe most likely function of geophagy was the acquisition of sodium. This conclusion is consistent with reports for other animals. Buffering stomach pH, an often ‐suggested function for animals with ruminant‐like digestion, was not supported. Detoxification, often proposed for animals with a diet high in secondary compounds, was also not supported.

Source: American Journal of Physical Anthropology - November 21, 2018 Category: Physiology Authors: Eliot T. Monaco, Carola Borries, Julia Nikolei, Mukesh K. Chalise, J örg U. Ganzhorn, Karsten Wesche, Andreas Koenig Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research