THE VALUE OF FIGS TO CHIMPANZEES

Nine Ugandan figs have consistent differences in nutrient concentratio n between the pulp and seed fractions. Pulp has more water-soluble car bohydrates, complex carbohydrates, calories, and ash, while the seed f raction has more condensed tannins, lipids, and fiber. Because species differ, nutrient concentration in pulp could not be predicted from an alysis of whole figs. Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest relied heavily on f igs throughout 29 months, feeding relatively intensely at large trees. Fig size varied between species, between individuals of the same spec ies, and between fruiting cycles of the same tree. Larger figs had hig her water concentrations but still led to higher rates Of nutrient int ake per minute for chimpanzees, monkeys, and hornbills. Chimpanzees at e more than 40 cal/min, excluding calories derived from insoluble fibe r, when harvesting large figs.