Green monkey

Green monkey

The Green monkey (Chlorocebus sabaeus) is a species of Old World monkey belonging to the genus Chlorocebus. It is native to West Africa and has been introduced to several islands in the Caribbean. The Green monkey is also known as the Sabaeus monkey or Callithrix monkey.

Description

Green monkeys have a distinctive greenish-olive or golden-green coat, which gives them their name. They have a pale underside and a black face with white tufts of hair on the sides. Adult males typically weigh between 4 to 8 kg, while females are smaller, weighing between 3 to 5 kg. They have long limbs and a tail that is often longer than their body, aiding in balance and movement through the trees.

Habitat

Green monkeys inhabit a variety of environments, including savannas, forests, and woodlands. They are highly adaptable and can also be found in areas close to human settlements, such as farmlands and urban areas.

Diet

Green monkeys are omnivorous, with a diet that includes fruits, leaves, flowers, seeds, and insects. They are also known to consume small vertebrates and bird eggs. Their diet can vary significantly depending on the availability of food sources in their habitat.

Behavior

Green monkeys are social animals that live in groups called troops. These troops can range in size from a few individuals to over 50 members. The social structure is typically matriarchal, with females forming the core of the group and males often leaving the troop upon reaching maturity.

Green monkeys communicate through a variety of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body postures. They are known for their alarm calls, which can alert other members of the troop to the presence of predators.

Reproduction

The breeding season for Green monkeys varies depending on their location. Females typically give birth to a single offspring after a gestation period of about 5 to 6 months. The young are weaned at around 6 months of age but remain dependent on their mothers for a longer period.

Conservation Status

The Green monkey is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List due to its wide distribution and large population. However, they face threats from habitat destruction, hunting, and capture for the pet trade.

Research and Importance

Green monkeys have been used extensively in biomedical research due to their physiological and genetic similarities to humans. They have contributed to studies in virology, immunology, and neuroscience.

See Also

• Old World monkey
• Chlorocebus
• Savanna
• IUCN Red List