Researchers Confirm New Colobus Monkey Species in Democratic Republic of Congo
Genetic, anatomical and acoustic evidence confirmed the rare monkey as a distinct lineage, and researchers say its tiny range may warrant endangered status.
- On Wednesday, researchers published confirmation in PLOS One that Colobus congoensis, known locally as Likweli, is a new monkey species identified through genetic, anatomical and acoustic analyses—only the fifth such African primate discovery in 75 years.
- The discovery began in 2008 when Lukuru Wildlife Research Foundation conservationists Bernard Ikembelo and Ashley Vosper captured a blurry photograph; a decade later, surveillance patrol leader Jean Pierre Kapale obtained a much clearer image in November 2018, sparking seven additional documented sightings over 10 months.
- Likwelis weigh about 7 kilograms with glossy black fur and striking orange-cream facial markings, while genetic analysis reveals they diverged from their closest relative, Colobus satanas, roughly 4 to 5 million years ago; researchers recorded 114 sightings across 1,700 square kilometers between 2018 and 2022.
- Researchers propose classifying the species as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to its restricted range and small population; study senior author Kate Detwiler, an associate professor of biological sciences at Florida Atlantic University, cited hunting pressure and habitat loss as primary threats.
- The Congo Basin remains a frontier for mammal discovery; researchers interviewed residents in 52 villages but only 8 recognized the species, explaining why it remained undocumented for decades, and study authors now plan research into Likweli's diet, behavior and reproduction.
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206 Articles
For years it has remained a hidden mystery among the dense forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Today, after almost two decades of studies and observations on the field, scientists have confirmed the existence of a new species of monkey belonging to the genus Colobus. Its scientific name is Colobus congoensis, while the local communities know it [...] L'articolo For almost twenty years it has remained a mystery: identified a new species …
Photographed by chance in 2008, then lost sight for ten years, the orange-eyed primate has just been recognized as a distinct species. A rare identification, after four years of investigation in the Lomami forest.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have named this primate Colobus Congoensis: this small monkey, recognizable by its orange lips, had until now remained very discreet in the lush forests of Lomami National Park, in the east-central Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Scientists have already added it to a list of endangered species.
The Colobus Congoensis lives in a very restricted area of the Democratic Republic of Congo and is already considered at risk. It had been observed a first time in 2008, but it took years to confirm its existence
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