ScienceJuly 15, 2026
colobus
/ˈkɒləbəs/
Definition
A type of Old World monkey native to Africa, characterized by long fur and the absence of thumbs on its hands.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek word 'kolobos,' meaning 'maimed' or 'docked.' This reflects the distinct physical trait of these monkeys having highly reduced or missing thumbs.
In the news
The term is used here to identify the genus of the newly discovered monkey species, C. congensis, which is being studied for its unique features in the Congo rainforest.
C. Congoensis (IMAGE)
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