An entirely new species of gibbon has been discovered living in the forests of the Gaoligong mountains of southwest China, according to a research team led by Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou that includes Dr Samuel Turvey of ZSL.
During a comprehensive study of the genetic characteristics of wild gibbons, including an assessment of their coat colour patterns and tooth morphology, scientists discovered that they were in fact looking at a brand new species.
They are calling for these animals to be recognised as the ‘Skywalker’ hoolock gibbon – a Star Wars-inspired name reflecting the high treetop home of the gibbons, and the historical Chinese view of them as almost mystical beings.
