mulatta

Mulatta is a Latin-derived term used in taxonomy as the feminine form of an epithet in scientific names. It is most widely encountered as the species epithet in Macaca mulatta, the rhesus macaque, a primate that has played a prominent role in biomedical research. In taxonomy, mulatta appears as part of a binomial name rather than as a standalone common name.

Macaca mulatta is a medium-sized Old World monkey in the family Cercopithecidae. The species is native to parts of Asia, with a range that includes the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and regions of China. It occupies a variety of habitats, from temperate to tropical forests and adjacent grasslands, and it is known for its ecological adaptability. Rhesus macaques are highly social and live in groups that exhibit clear social hierarchies, grooming behavior, and intricate vocal and facial communications. They are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, seeds, leaves, insects, and other small prey, and they have demonstrated high cognitive flexibility in foraging and problem-solving tasks.

In science, Macaca mulatta has become one of the most widely used nonhuman primate models. Their genetic, physiological, and anatomical similarities to humans have made them valuable in studies of infectious diseases, vaccines, neuroscience, and pharmacology. The use of rhesus macaques in research is subject to ethical guidelines and regulatory oversight in many countries, reflecting ongoing considerations about animal welfare and the scientific benefits of such work.

Etymology and naming: mulatta is a Latin-derived epithet used in the species name. The exact historical rationale for this particular epithet is not always documented, as with many traditional scientific names.