Coiba Island howler facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coiba Island howler |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Alouatta
|
| Species: |
coibensis
|
The Coiba Island howler (Alouatta coibensis) is a type of howler monkey. These monkeys are a kind of New World monkey. They live only in Panama, which means they are endemic there.
Scientists have recognized the Coiba Island howler as its own species since 1987. This was based on studies of its fingerprints. However, other tests using mitochondrial DNA found that it is very similar to the mantled howler. Some scientists still think it is a separate species because of differences in the skin patterns on its hands and feet.
This howler monkey is smaller than other howler monkeys found in Central America. Its fur is also not as bright as the Azuero howler (Alouatta coibensis trabeata).
Subspecies
When scientists consider the Coiba Island howler a separate species, they usually recognize two main types, called subspecies:
- Alouatta coibensis coibensis: This subspecies was first described by Oldfield Thomas in 1902. You can find it on Coiba Island and Jicaron. These islands are off the Pacific coast of Panama.
- Azuero howler, A. c. trabeata: This subspecies was described by Lawrence in 1933. It lives only on the Azuero Peninsula in Panama. This means it is endemic to that area.
