Meet Likweli: DR Congo’s New Colobus Monkey with Striking Orange Lips
Scientists have identified a new colobus monkey species, Colobus congoensis, in the forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Locals call it Likweli, and it stands out with glossy black fur, swept tail, large folded ears and vibrant pinkish-orange lips. Researchers from Florida Atlantic University and the City University of New York confirmed its uniqueness through skull, dental and skeletal comparisons. Genetic analysis shows Likweli diverged from its closest relative roughly 4–5 million years ago, one of the oldest splits in the colobus lineage. First spotted in 2008 and documented over 114 sightings between 2018 and 2022, Likweli lives in a limited range of about 1,700 square kilometres. Scientists recommend an Endangered status due to habitat loss and hunting. Most sightings occur inside Lomami National Park, underscoring the importance of protecting this key habitat.
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