Scientists have identified a new species of monkey living deep within the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking one of the most significant primate discoveries in Africa in decades. According to Reuters, the newly recognised species, named Colobus congoensis and known locally as “Likweli,” is distinguished by its striking orange-cream patches around the mouth and nose, black fur, and distinctive roaring vocalisations. The discovery makes it only the fifth new monkey species identified in Africa in the past 75 years, underscoring the remarkable biodiversity of the Congo Basin.
Researchers from the Democratic Republic of Congo, the United States, and Germany confirmed the species after years of fieldwork, genetic analysis, and behavioural studies conducted in Lomami National Park. Although conservationists first photographed the elusive primate in 2008, it was only after extensive surveys between 2018 and 2022 that scientists gathered enough evidence to establish it as a distinct species. The monkey is relatively small and inhabits the upper forest canopy, making it difficult to observe in its remote habitat.
Scientists believe the discovery has major implications for understanding primate evolution in Central Africa. Genetic evidence indicates that Colobus congoensis diverged from its closest known relatives millions of years ago, while its unique vocalisations and facial markings further distinguish it from other colobus monkeys. However, researchers warn that the species may already be under threat because of its limited geographic range, habitat destruction, and hunting pressure, and have recommended that it be classified as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The discovery reinforces the ecological importance of the Congo Basin, the world’s second-largest tropical rainforest, which continues to reveal previously undocumented wildlife despite decades of scientific exploration. Conservationists say the finding highlights the urgent need to protect the region’s forests and strengthen biodiversity conservation efforts, as many undiscovered or little-known species remain vulnerable to deforestation and human activity.
