Muriqui monkeys at risk: Forest loss could drive Brazil’s treetop giants to extinction

High above the forest floor of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, the northern and southern muriqui monkeys move gracefully through the treetops. Known for their calm nature and long limbs, these woolly spider monkeys were once widespread across the region.

Today, their forests are disappearing faster than they can adapt, putting their survival at risk. A recent study published in the Journal for Nature Conservation highlights the looming threat: northern muriquis could lose 44% of their habitat by 2090, while southern muriquis may face a 61% reduction. With climate change, deforestation, hunting, and habitat fragmentation compounding the issue, these gentle primates face an uncertain future unless urgent conservation measures are implemented.

Researchers used computer models combining current range, rainfall, and temperature data to project habitat suitability in 2030, 2050, 2070, and 2090. The results are alarming: suitable habitats are shifting northeast without expansion. Unlike other species that may find new areas to inhabit, muriquis face a steadily shrinking space, particularly in the western parts of their current range. Semi-deciduous forests, particularly in Paraná and São Paulo, are drying faster, making once-prime habitats increasingly hostile.

The northern muriqui will experience the sharpest decline between 2070 and 2090, with São Paulo potentially losing all suitable climate zones for survival.

How human activity threatens the Muriqui Monkeys beyond climate change

Climate change is only part of the challenge. Logging, agricultural expansion, and human encroachment continue to fragment forests, isolating populations. When groups become disconnected, genetic exchange diminishes, weakening their ability to survive and adapt.

Localised extinctions in degraded patches already demonstrate the fragility of these ecosystems. Each lost population reduces forest biodiversity, threatening not only the muriquis but also countless other species that rely on this complex habitat.

Coastal refuges could sustain muriquis amid habitat loss

Some hope remains in coastal regions, including Bahia, northeastern Minas Gerais, and the Espírito Santo coast. These areas rely on ombrophilous forests, lush, rain-fed ecosystems that can withstand warmer and drier conditions.

Protecting these refuges is critical for maintaining viable populations of both northern and southern muriquis, giving them a chance to persist as other parts of their range become unsuitable.

How ecological corridors support Muriqui monkeys against climate threats

Researchers emphasise action over alarm. Establishing ecological corridors to connect fragmented forests could allow muriquis to maintain gene flow, move between habitats, and adapt to environmental changes. Protecting existing forest strongholds is vital to prevent further localised extinctions. Conservation measures targeting both climate risks and human-driven habitat destruction offer the best chance for these monkeys to survive this century.Also read | 10 mammals that live in water and their unique survival traits