BLACK-FACED WOOLLY SPIDER MONKEY (MURIQUI)
Brachyteles arachnoides
Original range | Current range | Estimated population | Threats to survival | Species recovery | Species recovery | Partners and links
Description:
Weighing 15kg at maturity and measuring 80cm from head to tail, this herbivorous species is the largest New World primate and one of the most endangered primates in the world. Muriquis have a strong prehensile tail, which, coupled with their long arms, makes them nimble climbers and arboreal acrobats.
Their social system is thought to be matriarchal. When females mature, they move to neighbouring groups. In keeping with the species' docile nature, a female in estrus mates with all her suitors. Instead of competing aggressively with one another, males bond closely which generates strong group cohesion and calm social relations. The young are born helpless and mature slowly, so adults invest much time raising each offspring.
Original range:
Muriquis were once found throughout the Atlantic forest of southern Brazil.
Current range:
Isolated pockets of mountainous forest in southern Brazil in the states of Espirito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Parana, and Minas Gerais.
Estimated population:
The current muriqui population is estimated at 2,000 in isolated pockets, a dramatic drop from original levels of approximately 400,000.
Threats to survival:
There are two main threats to survival. One is habitat loss; an estimated 5% of the original Atlantic forest cover remains, with only 1% in pristine condition. The other is illegal hunting; the Muriqui's docile nature and large size make it an easy and attractive target.
Species recovery:
The project leader for muriqui recovery is the Instituto de Pesquisas ƒcologicas (IPƒ), WPC's partner in Brazil. The initial two-year project consists of basic field research including a census and the study of population distribution, detailed habitat requirements and mortality factors. The project will focus on newly discovered populations of muriqui on private lands in the Serra de Mantiqueira region of Minas Gerais and Sao Paulo states. The objective of this first phase of the study for IPƒ, local landowners, and, if appropriate, IBAMA, the national agency responsible for wildlife and the environment to develop a conservation plan. The study will provide field training experience for graduate biologists working under project leader Dr. Claudio Padua. In addition to the scientific work, the project will also focus local education programs on the muriqui as a symbol for conservation of local habitat.
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