Scientists Discover New Monkey Species in Eastern Congo After 20 Years

Researchers have identified a new species of monkey deep in the forests of eastern Congo, a discovery that resolves a two-decade-old mystery. The newly recognized species, locally called "Likweli" and scientifically named Colobus congoensis, is only the fifth new monkey species identified worldwide in the past 75 years. Genetic analysis revealed that this species is closely related to the black colobus monkey, also known as the "black-and-white colobus," despite the two species living about 1,200 kilometers apart.

The elusive nature of the Likweli made it difficult for scientists to study, as it is shy and rarely seen. The first encounter occurred in 2008, when researchers managed to capture only a blurry photo. It was not until a special international expedition a decade later that scientists confirmed the Likweli as a previously unknown species. Junior Ambeko, a doctoral student at Florida Atlantic University and a lead member of the expedition, described the moment of discovery as "an amazing feeling to look into the face of an animal few people knew existed."

The Likweli is notable for its distinctive appearance, featuring black fur and face with large pink-orange lips at the center of its face. Researchers hope that revealing this new species will raise awareness about the importance of conserving the Congo's forest habitats, which may still harbor other undiscovered species.