Colobus congoensis:
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.
- Colobus congoensis 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.
- The monkey is immediately recognizable by its glossy black coat, long cape-like fur, sweeping tail, and striking orange-cream facial markings.
- 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.
