New monkey species with orange lips found 'hiding' in DR Congo forest

• 01Researchers have officially confirmed a new monkey species, designated Colobus congoensis, in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• 02The species was discovered in Lomami National Park after initial sightings by conservationists in 2008 and a subsequent investigation ten years later.
• 03This marks only the fifth African monkey species to be discovered in the last 75 years.
• 04An international research team, including PhD student Junior Amboko, utilized audio recordings, photography, and genetic studies to validate the species.
• 05The monkeys, locally known as Likweli, are characterized by black fur, a black face, and distinctive pinkish-orange lips.
• 06Local people in eight out of 52 interviewed villages had previously seen the monkey, which is known by the name Likweli.
• 07The monkey belongs to the colobus group, which are herbivores without thumbs that play a role in seed processing and forest germination.
• 08Researchers speculate that the monkey's bright facial markings may serve as a visual signal for mating or identification.
• 09The findings were published in the journal PLoS One.
• 10Researchers hope the new classification will enable official protection for the species, which is hunted for meat.

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An international research team confirmed the discovery of Colobus congoensis, a previously unknown monkey species with distinctive pinkish-orange lips, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The species, locally known as Likweli, was identified through genetic studies and field observations in Lomami National Park, marking only the fifth African monkey species discovered in 75 years. Researchers aim to use this classification to secure legal protection for the hunted primates.