Scientists Discover New Orange-Mouthed Monkey Species in Congo Rainforest

A previously unknown monkey species has been discovered in the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, eluding scientists and local communities for years. Named "Likweli" after the local nickname, this species represents only the fifth new African monkey identified in the past 75 years, according to the scientific journal Science.

The rare primate inhabits the Lomami National Park and is characterized by black fur and a distinctive orange patch around its mouth. It was first captured on camera in 2008 but only definitively identified about a decade later during research by the TL2 wildlife conservation initiative, which operates in the Tshuapa, Lomami, and Lualaba river regions.

Researchers, including conservation biologist Junior Amboko and primatologist Kate Detwiler from Florida Atlantic University, conducted extensive fieldwork over four years, documenting the monkeys’ behavior, vocalizations, and genetics. They found that the Likweli belongs to the Colobus genus but differs from other colobus monkeys by its unique orange-cream facial markings, spiky fur, and distinct calls. Genetic analysis showed it diverged from its closest relative, the black colobus (C. satanas), around five million years ago.

The species was named Colobus congoensis to honor the Congo Basin’s unique biodiversity. The researchers recommend classifying it as endangered due to its limited range of approximately 1,700 square kilometers and threats from habitat loss caused by hunting and agricultural expansion around the park. Ecologist Thomas Gillespie emphasized the urgency of protecting the species and its habitat, noting the discovery highlights the critical conservation value of Lomami National Park.

Summary: Scientists have identified a new monkey species, Colobus congoensis, in Congo’s Lomami National Park, distinguished by its orange mouth and genetic uniqueness. The species is endangered due to its small habitat and environmental pressures.

Points: - A new monkey species named Likweli was discovered in Congo’s Lomami National Park. - It is the fifth new African monkey species found in 75 years. - The monkey has distinctive orange-cream markings around its mouth. - Genetic studies show it diverged from black colobus monkeys 5 million years ago. - The species is endemic to a small 1,700 km² area and is endangered. - Habitat loss from hunting and agriculture threatens its survival.

Topic: general

Entities: {"people":["Thomas Gillespie","Junior Amboko","Kate Detwiler"],"organizations":["TL2 Wildlife Conservation Initiative","Florida Atlantic University","Frankfurt Zoological Society"],"places":["Democratic Republic of Congo","Lomami National Park","Congo Basin","Tshuapa River","Lomami River","Lualaba River"]}