Animal World: Scientists discover first new African monkey genus in 83 years

Space Daily, reports that "for the first time in 83 years, scientists have identified a new genus of a living primate from Africa."

"The new African monkey, Rungwecebus kipunji (rhung-way-CEE-bus key-POON-gee), was first described scientifically last year based only on photographs. At that time, scientists placed the reclusive monkey in the genus Lophocebus, commonly known as mangabeys. Shortly thereafter, one of these monkeys died in a farmer's trap. As a result, a team of scientists, organized by Tim Davenport of the Wildlife Conservation Society, was able to study the specimen's physical characteristics and analyze tissue samples on a molecular level. Their research has concluded that Kipunji (its common name) belongs to an entirely new genus".

Full article: First New African Monkey Genus In 83 Years (by Staff Writers Chicago IL (SPX) May 12, 2006)