Home / Science / New Primate Species Found in Congo With Striking Pink Lips!
New Primate Species Found in Congo With Striking Pink Lips!
16 Jul
Summary
- A new monkey species with distinct pink lips discovered in DRC.
- First sightings of the primate were reported in 2008 and 2018.
- This marks the fifth African monkey species found in 75 years.
A previously unknown monkey species, distinguished by its vibrant pinkish-orange lips and black facial features, has been officially recognized by science. This primate resides in the dense tropical forests of Lomami National Park, located in the central-eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Conservationists initially encountered this distinctive monkey in 2008, capturing only a single, indistinct photograph. A decade later, a subsequent sighting prompted an international research team to investigate, leading to its confirmation as a new species.
This discovery is particularly noteworthy as it represents only the fifth new African monkey species to be identified within the last 75 years. The intensive research involved PhD student Junior Amboko from Florida Atlantic University, utilizing audio recordings, photography, and genetic analysis.
