A new species of monkey has been discovered in Arunachal Pradesh, a region in northeast India. The species has been named the Sela Macaque, after the Sela Pass where it was located. This area is over 13,700 feet above sea level and is situated between the towns of Dirang and Tawang. The new species was identified and studied by expert teams from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and the University of Calcutta.
The Discovery of the Sela Macaque
Research into the new species shows that it is geographically distinct from the previously identified Arunachal macaque (Macaca munzala), also native to the Tawang district. This separation is due to the Sela Pass acting as a natural barrier between the two species’ habitats. Phylogenetic analysis – the study of evolutionary development and diversification – reveals that the Sela Macaque is genetically different than other monkey species known to inhabit the region.
Comparing Sela and Arunachal Macaques
The Sela macaque shares some physical traits with the Arunachal macaque, including heavy build and long dorsal body hair. These similarities led researchers to conclude that the Sela is genetically closer to the Arunachal species. Both species’ groups tend to either steer clear of humans or adapt to human presence.
However, there are also key differences that distinguish the Sela macaque. It possesses a lighter face and brown coat compared to the dark face and dark brown coat of the Arunachal species. The Sela macaque’s tail is longer than those of the Tibetan, Assamese, Arunachal, and white-cheeked macaques, but shorter than the bonnet and toque macaques.
Sela macaques belong to the sinica species-group, yet they exhibit unique characteristics such as a brown collar hair and muzzle, thick brown neck hair, and an absence of chin whiskers.
The Impact of the Sela Macaque
Despite being newly identified, the Sela macaque has already had notable impacts on its environment. It has been identified as a major cause of crop loss in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.
About the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
The ZSI, under the Ministry of Environment and Forests, is responsible for the faunistic survey and exploration of India’s rich biodiversity. Established in 1916, ZSI is a national authority that advances knowledge about the diverse fauna in the country. It has its headquarters in Kolkata and operates 16 regional stations across various geographic locations in India.
A significant discovery like the Sela Macaque adds to the rich biodiversity catalogued by organizations like the ZSI. It also provides critical insights into the unique evolutionary developments and diversifications of these fascinating creatures sharing our planet.
