Colobus congoensis

Colobus congoensis Latest News

A team of researchers recently confirmed the discovery of a previously unknown species of African monkey named Colobus congoensis in the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking one of the most significant primate discoveries in decades.

About Colobus congoensis

• It is a new species of monkey.
• It was discovered in the rainforest between the Lomami and Congo (Lualaba) rivers in the east-central region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).  
• Locally known as the Likweli, it is only the fifth new monkey species identified in Africa in the past 75 years.  
• It belongs to the genus Colobus while revealing that it diverged from its closest known relative, Colobus satanas, approximately 4 to 5 million years ago. 
• The monkey is immediately recognizable by its glossy black coat, long cape-like fur, sweeping tail, and striking orange-cream facial markings. 
• Weighing about 15 pounds, it is smaller than its closest relatives and possesses distinctive cranial, dental, and skeletal characteristics that separate it from every other known African colobus monkey. 
• It also has a distinctive “roaring” call. ” 
• Given their restricted range, small population size, and the pressures of hunting and habitat loss, the researchers recommend that Colobus congoensis be classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. 

News: EUR

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