A newly identified monkey species has been discovered in the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, marking one of the most significant primate discoveries in Africa in decades and drawing renewed attention to the region’s extraordinary biodiversity.
According to Reuters, scientists have identified the species, locally known as “Likweli,” in the country’s Lomami National Park. The monkey has been formally named Colobus congoensis and is distinguished by light orange-cream skin around its mouth and nose, giving it a striking mask-like appearance.
The discovery is only the fifth new monkey species identified in Africa over the past 75 years, underscoring how much of the continent’s wildlife remains scientifically undocumented.
Conservation scientist John Hart of the Lukuru Wildlife Research Foundation described the finding as further evidence of the remarkable biodiversity that still exists within the Central Congo Basin while stressing the importance of protecting these ecosystems.
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According to Reuters, the newly identified monkey is relatively small, has black fur, and can be recognised by the distinctive light-coloured patch surrounding its mouth and nose.
Researchers also found that the species produces a unique roaring call with an acoustic structure that differs from those of related monkeys.
Reuters reported that scientists have named the species Colobus congoensis, while local communities have long referred to it as “Likweli.”
John Hart said the discovery reinforces how much biodiversity in the Central Congo Basin has yet to be documented despite years of scientific research.
Researchers also warned that the newly identified primate could already face conservation risks because of its limited geographic range and relatively small population.
What This Means For Africa
The discovery highlights Africa’s continuing importance as one of the world’s richest centres of biodiversity and demonstrates that major scientific discoveries are still being made across the continent.
For conservation scientist John Hart, the identification of a new primate species also serves as a reminder that protecting Africa’s forests remains essential for preserving wildlife that may still be unknown to science.
According to Reuters, researchers are proposing that the International Union for Conservation of Nature classify the species as endangered because of concerns over its restricted habitat and population size.
The finding also reinforces the ecological significance of the Congo Basin, the world’s second-largest tropical rainforest, which supports thousands of plant and animal species while playing a critical role in global climate regulation.
As scientific exploration continues across Africa, discoveries such as Colobus congoensis demonstrate the value of long-term conservation research and collaboration with local communities that have known these species for generations.
Protecting habitats like Lomami National Park will remain essential if newly discovered wildlife is to survive alongside growing environmental pressures, ensuring that Africa’s natural heritage continues to benefit both science and future generations.
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Image Credit: Art Of Safari
