Rapid Fire
Red Colobus
- 17 May 2024
- 1 min read
A recent study suggests that Red Colobus Monkeys, a rare and endangered population of monkeys found in various regions of Africa are facing threats to their survival and are at risk of becoming extinct.
- These monkeys act as "indicator species," meaning their presence and well-being reflect the overall health of the forest ecosystem.
- Colobines are primarily leaf-eaters. They also play a vital role in seed dispersal, contributing to the regeneration of diverse plant life.
- Their unique digestive system allows them to consume and disperse seeds, ensuring the continuation of various plant species.
- Across Africa, there are 17 red colobus species (18 if subspecies are counted), spanning from Senegal to the Zanzibar Archipelago.
- 14 of them are classified as Endangered or Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Read More: IUCN Red List Update 2023
