Scientists identify newfound monkey species with distinctive orange lips in DR Congo

Scientists have officially identified a new monkey species, named *Colobus congoensis* and known locally as "Likweli," in the remote rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This discovery is significant as it marks only the fifth new African monkey species described in the last 75 years. The monkey is characterized by its distinctive vivid orange lips, mostly black fur, mask-like facial markings, and unique roaring vocalizations.

The identification process involved years of dedicated research by an international team, starting with initial blurry sightings in 2008 and clearer photographs in 2018. Researchers conducted extensive field observations, detailed physical comparisons, and advanced DNA analysis to confirm it as a distinct evolutionary lineage, having diverged from its closest relatives millions of years ago. The findings, which were published in the journal PLOS One, highlight the Congo Basin's rich biodiversity and the ongoing need for conservation. Due to its limited geographic range of approximately 1,700 square kilometers and threats like habitat loss and hunting, experts recommend listing *Colobus congoensis* as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.