Junior Amboko’s research confirms a new monkey species discovered deep within the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A new primate species, the black-furred Colobus congoensis, has been scientifically confirmed in the forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The discovery was made after sustained effort by an international team, with Junior Amboko, a PhD student at Florida Atlantic University, playing a leading role in the search. Conservationists initially reported sightings of the unusual monkey in 2008, but it was only through subsequent work that the species was officially documented. The research involved audio recording, photography, and genetic studies, leading to its formal classification. Professor Kate Detwiler, from Florida Atlantic University, explained that these canopy herbivores are critical to the ecosystem, potentially aiding in seed germination. Researchers hope the new classification will lead to official protections for the animal, as the species is currently hunted for meat. The team noted that local people knew of the animal, which they call Likweli, but that the monkeys remain elusive. The team plans further surveys to estimate the population and better study the biology of the newly described species.