New species of monkey discovered in Africa
14th September 2012
Researchers have recently revealed that a new species of monkey has been found in Africa
The discovery marks the second new species of monkey to be found in 28 years, according to the online journal, Public Library of Science.
The species was discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in one of the remote and unexplored forested areas. This species is known by local people as Lesula. The Lesula monkey resembles an owl-faced monkey but has a different colouring. It's characterised by its golden fur, which differs from its closest relative's black fur.
The monkey was found in captivity; animals are often kept by locals in the area. Other Lesulas have now been found in the nearby forests of the Congo and are said to survive on leafstalks, fruit and flower buds. It's also thought that more discoveries could be made in the unexplored jungle.
A strong emphasis on preservation has already been placed on the newly found monkeys. Hunting is widespread in the area and the expansion of human borders has infringed onto animal's natural habitats.
"Species with small ranges like the Lesula can move from vulnerable to seriously endangered over the course of just a few years," said Dr John Hart of the Lukuru Foundation, leader of the project.
"The challenge for conservation now in Congo is to intervene before losses become definitive."