The DPZ maintains field stations in Peru, North Guinea, Senegal, Madagascar and Thailand. There, the scientists study the behavior, habitats and ecology of different primate species. They are also investigating the genetic relationships within or between different primate species. So far, the DPZ researchers have discovered a total of 18 new species at the field stations. The DPZ conducts research projects on old and new world monkeys and lemurs on three continents in cooperation with international and local institutions (ministries, nature conservation organizations, universities). These research findings not only enable us to better understand the lives of our closest relatives, but also to draw conclusions about us humans and our own development.
Primates, with the exception of humans, are mostly found in the world's species-rich tropical and subtropical regions. Many of these regions are among the areas with the highest biodiversity of all (biodiversity hotspots). This flora and fauna is highly endangered, as its occurrence is limited to just a few corners of the world.
More than three quarters of these species-rich regions are located in South America, Africa or on the island states in the Asia-Pacific region, and this is also where the DPZ research stations are located. Many of the monkey species studied by the scientists at our research stations are dependent on these unique habitats.
In order not only to research these unique ecosystems, but also to protect them, the scientists work closely with the local population and other cooperating institutions, such as authorities and universities. At all DPZ field stations, the staff therefore promote the education of students and pupils or the further training of national park rangers and field assistants in order to raise the local population's awareness of their natural environment. The research teams also work specifically against poaching or pollution in the study areas, initiate waste management and recycling plans or care for animals that have been injured in poachers' traps.
The DPZ field station Kirindy Forest is located on the island state of Madagascar, one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in the world. Madagascar is home to many species that are found nowhere else on earth, such as the lemurs (Lemuriformes), a sub-order of primates.
The Peruvian Estación Biológica Quebrada Blanco is located on the world's most water-rich river, the Amazon. This river supplies almost the entire South American continent with water and creates a unique habitat. The tropical rainforests on the extensive banks are home to many New World monkeys (Platyrrhini).
The Centre de Recherche de Primatologie Simenti is located in the largest national park in West Africa, the Niokolo Koba National Park. The gallery forests along the Gambia River are home to large groups of Guinea baboons.
The Moyen-Bafing research station is located in a mountainous savannah region in northern Guinea. It was built in 2022 to study the life strategy, ecology and behavior of chimpanzees living in this arid environment.
The Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary (PKWS) research station is located in north-eastern Thailand and is part of the Western Isaan Forest Complex, a large forested area on the border with Laos. The scientists there are researching the social behavior of Assamese macaques.
