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Zoologists have discovered and described a new species of monkey belonging to the genus Colobus, which inhabits the jungles of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This species has been named likveli. Its distinction from other colobuses lies in its more compact size, the presence of orange lips, and a white patch around the anus.

Genetic Origin and Threats

Genetic studies have established that likvelis belong to an evolutionary branch that separated approximately four to five million years ago. Unfortunately, due to their limited range, as well as deforestation and hunting, this new species is under threat of extinction. The results of this scientific investigation were published in PLoS One.

History of New Primate Discoveries

Although over 500 primate species are known to zoologists, discoveries continue, often by assigning the status of a separate species to already known populations based on genetic, morphological, and acoustic data. In recent times, the Skywalker howler, the Tapanuli orangutan, and Schneider's guenon have been discovered. Previously, in 2005, the monkey Rungwecebus kipunji, related to baboons, inhabiting the mountain forests of Tanzania, was described, and in 2012, the monkey Cercopithecus lomamiensis from the Democratic Republic of Congo was described.

Details of Likveli Discovery

John Hart of the Lukuru Nature Research Foundation and his team reported the discovery of another new primate species. The first evidence of its existence appeared in 2008 when researchers recorded a small long-tailed monkey in the jungles of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo that differed from all local species, although most of the animal in the picture was hidden by foliage. Between 2018 and 2019, after the creation of Lomami National Park in the area, these monkeys were sighted and photographed about ten times. These new images clearly show that they have black fur, elongated on the back and shoulders, and on the bare skin of the face, there are orange lips and a lip groove, as well as a gray 'mask' around the eyes and a white patch around the anus. This combination of coloration is not found in any known African primates.

Scientific Research and Classification

From 2020 to 2022, Hart and his co-authors conducted in-depth research on these monkeys from Lomami. The team observed them, recording their sounds, and took three individuals for genetic and morphological analysis. The analysis showed that the Lomami monkeys belong to the genus Colobus (Colobus) of the family Cercopithecidae, but they differ from all described representatives of the genus in their coloration, smaller size (weighing about seven kilograms), skull structure, and vocalization method. They are most similar to black colobus monkeys (C. satanas) living approximately 1200 kilometers to the west, between Cameroon and Gabon. Nevertheless, the latter are larger, and they lack the orange markings on the lips and the white patch around the anus. Genetic comparison revealed that the Lomami monkeys and black colobus monkeys are sister evolutionary lineages that diverged about four to five million years ago.

Assignment of New Name and Range

The researchers decided to designate the Lomami monkeys as a separate species, naming it Colobus congoensis. Local residents use the vernacular name 'likweli', which the authors also recommend. However, surveys in the presumed habitat area showed that this species is known to the local population in only eight out of fifty-two locations. According to Hart and his colleagues' estimates, the likveli's range covers a limited area of about 1700 square kilometers on the right bank of the Lomami River. These monkeys live in dense jungles with tall trees on clay soil uplands, at an altitude of 406–490 meters above sea level, mainly near the Lomami River. The likvelis are almost constantly in the canopy, descending to the ground only rarely.

Behavior and Conservation Status

Between 2018 and 2022, 114 encounters with these primates were recorded. They move alone or in small groups (averaging 6.2 individuals), often accompanied by one to six other species of monkeys, such as Angolan colobus (C. angolensis) and red colobus Piliocolobus parmentieri. Based on dental structure, likvelis feed on fruits, leaves, and flowers, unlike their closest relatives, black colobus monkeys, which mainly consume seeds. Since likvelis are rarely encountered even within their limited range, researchers recommended assigning the species the endangered status (EN). The main threats to them remain deforestation and hunting. Given the rapid growth of the region's population, a significant reduction in the number and range of likvelis is predicted in the coming decades. The authors emphasize that the most effective way to guarantee the future of this species is through strengthening the protection of Lomami National Park.

A new species of African macaque has been discovered in the tropical forest of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), named Colobus congoensis. This primate is the fifth new macaque species identified in Africa in the last 75 years, according to a study reported by the University of Florida (FAU) in the United States.

Habitat and Threats to the Species

The new species was hidden in a remote area between the Lomami and Congo rivers, in the East-Central part of the DRC. Despite decades of scientific research in Central Africa, this species had not been previously registered. However, an article published in PLOS One indicates that it may be threatened due to its limited geographical distribution, habitat loss, and hunting pressure.

Description and Characteristics

C. congoensis weighs about seven kilograms. It is distinguished by glossy black fur, 'shoulder patches resembling a mantle,' a long, wavy tail, white rump markings, and a 'bright orange-cream patch around the mouth and nose,' giving it a 'striking mask-like appearance different from any other known macaque of the genus Colobus.' Local communities call it 'Likweli' or 'kasaba nkoni' (branch provocateur), noting that it is a shy and rarely seen primate.

Discovery History and Scientific Data

According to FAU, some researchers first noticed this primate in 2008 and took a partially obscured photograph. Only 10 years later, when they found the animal again and could obtain a clearer image, was the decision made for deeper study. Between 2018 and 2022, 114 sightings were recorded over an area of only 1,700 square kilometers, which is 'unusually low for macaques of the genus Colobus.'

Scientists conducted genetic, anatomical, and acoustic analysis and confirmed that the macaque represents a separate evolutionary lineage that diverged from its closest known relative, Colobus satanas, approximately 4–5 million years ago. As noted by Kate Detweiler, an associate professor of biological sciences at FAU, this is 'one of the oldest evolutionary splits known in the Colobus line.'

Significance of the Discovery and Future Steps

Junior Amboko, a graduate student at the same university and a National Geographic researcher, called the discovery 'exciting and deeply personal,' emphasizing the 'exceptional biodiversity' of his homeland and 'how much more needs to be documented.' He noted that it was an honor to name the species 'Colobus congoensis,' recognizing the outstanding natural heritage of the Congo Basin and noting that it is the first primate named after the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The discovery of C. congoensis also highlights the scientific importance of the Lomami National Park (where most of its known habitat is located) and its buffer zone in the DRC. Another primate was also discovered in this park in 2012 by members of the same research team—the 'lesula' (Cercopithecus lomamiensis).

John Hart, a conservation biologist and the lead author of the paper who headed the team that discovered the 'lesula,' emphasizes that 'the Congo Basin remains one of the last great frontiers of the world for mammal discoveries.' He adds that entirely new species continue to be discovered even in scientifically studied regions, underscoring the amount of biodiversity yet to be registered in the Central Congo Basin, and how this region continues to change our understanding of primate evolution and conservation.

Concurrently with including C. congoensis in the scientific registry, scientists propose listing this species on the IUCN Red List as endangered, given the risks it faces. Kate Detweiler concludes: 'The discovery of Colobus congoensis is a scientific triumph, but also a sobering reminder that some of the rarest creatures on Earth may disappear before the world even knows about them.'

International Participation in the Research

The international team included scientists from Yale and New York universities in the United States, Lomami National Park, and the Zoological Society of Frankfurt in Germany.

The State Environmental Expertise Center of Uzbekistan stated that the information published in several media outlets regarding the creation of the Aaros Center is untrue and distorts the content of the discussions held.

Format and Course of Meetings

The Center emphasized that the meeting took place exclusively in an open consultative format. It was noted that no competitive selection procedures were conducted, and the head of the Aaros Center was neither selected nor appointed. Furthermore, it was clarified that no candidate was approved, rejected, or excluded from further consideration.

Goals of the Discussions

According to the Center, the goal of the gathering was to exchange views on possible approaches to the future establishment of the Aaros Center. Participants discussed the professional experience of potential candidates, their knowledge of environmental law, management skills, and foreign language proficiency. All proposals made during the discussion were consultative in nature and did not lead to any decisions regarding personnel or organization.

Refutation of False Statements

The State Environmental Expertise Center also rejected assertions published in reports that the future head of the Aaros Center has already been determined, that the future structure will depend on state bodies, or that representatives of the environmental community were intentionally excluded from the center's creation process. The Center insists that such statements lack factual basis, are not supported by official documents, and do not reflect the real situation.

Current Status of the Project

It was reported that the discussion of the organizational and legal model of the Aaros Center is ongoing. No final decisions have been made regarding financing, the procedure for selecting a head, the management structure, or mechanisms to ensure independence. The Center noted that all these issues are being considered within the framework of an open and comprehensive dialogue involving representatives of state agencies, civil society institutions, the expert community, and other interested parties.

Appeal to the Media

The State Environmental Expertise Center concluded that the published materials represent a subjective interpretation of individual participants' opinions and do not reflect the true course, goals, or content of the meeting, which may mislead the public. The Center called on media organizations, authors, and users of information resources to rely solely on verified and reliable information, adhere to the principles of objectivity, professional journalistic ethics, and responsible dissemination of data, refraining from publishing unconfirmed statements that could create a false impression of the Aaros Center's creation process.