In the future, this role as seed disperser, which is vital for the regeneration of the tropical forest, could be exploited by the Thai authorities who have been trying, with some success, to slow down the deforestation rate ‘Resorting to the use of primates is a promising way forward both ecologically and economically ,” believes the primatologist, who points out their efficiency relative to standard reforestation plans. After all, the use of the primates’ “services” would only be an extension of pilot projects which are already under way in several Asian countries, placing perches to attract birds that are known to defecate only when settling. “Local populations have a poor opinion of them because of their intrusive and thieving behavior, but the macaques could benefit from a better reputation in the eyes of the Thai people who are renowned for their love of the forests”.

There are, however, three drawbacks to this hope. Although they are capable of dispersing many seeds (including very long ones), the dispersal carried out by pig-tailed macaques remains less effective for some tree species than that of other dispersers: birds and other mammals. Essentially, it remains for the scientific community to study the seeds’ germination potential in the natural environment, given the doctoral student was only able to assess it in experimental conditions. Finally and last but not least, in spite of their great adaptability in terms of food and habitat (they are said to be “opportunists”), the northern pig-tailed macaques seem to need a minimum amount of primary forests left to them in order to play their role in the regeneration of damaged forests. Below this minimum, the role of gardener no longer seems possible. Even if this empirical observation remains to be scientifically confirmed, it shows the urgent need for a policy of protection for the tropical forests and their inhabitants.