News: Scientists have discovered a new monkey species, Likweli, in the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Highlights

• Common Name: Likweli
• Scientific Name: Colobus congoensis
• It is Africa's fifth new monkey species discovered in the last 75 years.
• Named to honour the rich biodiversity of the Congo.

Key Features

• Glossy black fur with orange-pink lips.
• Distinctive roaring call.
• Lacks a functional thumb, a characteristic feature of colobus monkeys.
• Herbivorous; feeds mainly on leaves and other plant matter.
• Has a ruminant-like foregut fermentation digestive system that uses microbes to digest cellulose.
• Acts as a seed disperser, helping regenerate forests.
• Maintains rainforest health by promoting tree growth and nutrient recycling.
• Estimated to have a small population.
• Threatened by hunting and deforestation.