Overview
- The species was formally described in the journal PLOS One on July 15, 2026, and given the scientific name Colobus congoensis with the local name Likweli.
- Field teams recorded 114 observations between 2018 and 2022 across an estimated range of about 1,700 square kilometres in the Lomami–Congo interfluve.
- Mitochondrial DNA and comparative skull and pelt analyses indicate C. congoensis diverged from its closest known relative, Colobus satanas, about 4–5 million years ago, and researchers also found distinct vocal patterns and a unique mask‑like facial pattern.
- Most known habitat lies in and near Lomami National Park and researchers recommend the species be listed as Endangered because of its small range, low densities, hunting pressure and risk of habitat loss.
- The discovery is unusually rare for African primatology—only the fifth new monkey described in roughly 75 years—and it relied on local knowledge, park patrol photos and confiscated hunter specimens, which together highlight Lomami’s conservation importance and the need for more population and ecological studies.