Monkey with orange lips identified as newfound species

Key Points:

• A new monkey species, Colobus congoensis or Likweli, with distinctive orange lips and a deep roaring call, has been identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo, marking only the fifth new African monkey species discovered in 75 years.
• The species features a glossy black coat, long fur, a sweeping tail, and unique cranial, dental, and skeletal traits, and is smaller than related Colobus monkeys, weighing about 15 pounds.
• Genetic analysis shows Colobus congoensis diverged from its closest relative, Colobus satanas, around 4 to 5 million years ago, highlighting one of the oldest evolutionary splits in the Colobus lineage.
• The species was first photographed in 2008, with extensive field observations and genetic studies confirming its distinct status by 2022, using local ecological knowledge and museum specimen comparisons.
• Due to its limited range of about 1,700 square kilometers, habitat loss, and hunting pressures, researchers recommend classifying Colobus congoensis as Endangered, emphasizing the importance of protecting Lomami National Park where most of its habitat lies.