Scientists have discovered a new species of monkey dwelling in the mountainous area of central Myanmar -- and it's on the brink of extinction.
The Popa langur (Trachypithecus popa) is a leaf-eating monkey that is found across Southeast Asia with a long tail, greyish-colored fur, and ring around its eyes.
The Popa langurs got its name after the sacred extinct volcano Mount Popa and are classified as "critically endangered." According to the research team, there is an estimated number of 200-260 that is left.
"The Popa langur, just newly described, is already critically endangered and facing extinction so it's absolutely critical to protect the remaining population and to engage with local communities as well as private sector stakeholders to safeguard its future," said Frank Momberg of the conservation group Fauna & Flora International (FFI).
Researchers at FFI and the German Primate Center (GMC) carried out field surveys of the langurs and gathered samples and DNA of all other Trachypithecus species -- cousins of the Popa langur.
They combined the data from these surveys and samples, as well as data from specimens in other museums, and confirmed the existence of the new species.
The discovery is published in the journal Zoological Research.
Words by Lattrel Ylaya Layout by Kiziah Magbanua
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