3 New ADORABLE Lemur Species defined, maybe
The actual number of distinct lemur species is something disputed amount scientists. So an international team of researchers set out to solve this taxonomic problem by studying the lemur genetics.
They confirmed the distinctiveness of 8 known lemur species: Lepilemur ankaranensis, L. dorsalis, L. edwardsi, L. leucopus, L. microdon, L. mustelinus, L. ruficaudatus and L. septentrionalis
However, their research has shown that there are possibly 3 extra species hidden among 8 previously classified species. More research needs to be done to confirm their work.
et la Conservation des Lémuriens (A.E.E.C.L.)
(Photo by U. Thalmann)
Lepilemur randrianasoli
Named in honor of the researchers’ colleague, Georges Randrianasolo.
(photo by N. Andriaholinirina)
Lepilemur sahamalazensis
Named after the location where the critters live, the Sahamalaza
Peninsula of Madagascar.
The researchers’ complete 41 page report in PDF format can be found here.
DID YOU KNOW: the word “lemur” is derived from the Latin word lemures, which means “spirits of the night” and that lemurs are only naturally found on Madagascar, the large island off the eastern coast of Africa.
on July 21st, 2006 at 9:13 am
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