New Monkey Species Colobus Congoensis Formally Described in Congo Basin

New Scientist reported that researchers have formally described a new monkey species, Colobus congoensis, from a remote section of the Congo Basin rainforest in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The species, known locally as likweli, represents the fifth new monkey documented from Africa in the past 75 years. The monkey measures about 1.3 metres long and weighs around 7 kilograms.

It features a distinctive mask-like face with light-coloured skin around the mouth and beneath the nose. Scientists first noted the animal in 2008 during a survey along the Lomami river, now inside Lomami National Park, when a partial photograph captured an unknown primate high in the canopy. Additional sightings occurred in November 2018.

Between 2018 and 2022 researchers recorded 114 observations, including 25 vocalisations. In 2021 several monkeys killed for bushmeat were confiscated and provided to scientists for study. Morphological examination, genetic tests and vocalisation recordings confirmed the animals formed a separate species.

Genetic analyses showed the lineage split from its closest relative, Colobus satanas, roughly 4 to 5 million years ago. The two populations remain separated by more than 1200 kilometres and several major rivers. Likweli is currently known only from 1700 square kilometres of rainforest.

Kate Detwiler of Florida Atlantic University stated that hunting poses the primary threat because of the species’ small range and low densities. The research team has proposed listing Colobus congoensis as endangered and granting it protected status under national law to prohibit hunting, including in buffer zones around the park. 0349857.