Description
The white-bellied spider monkey, scientifically known as Ateles belzebuth, is a remarkable and endangered species of spider monkey, a type of New World monkey. This primate is characterized by its long, slender limbs, prehensile tail, and agile, arboreal nature. The species is also known as the white-fronted or long-haired spider monkey, reflecting its distinct physical features and habitat preferences.
Appearance
The white-bellied spider monkey is distinguished by its long, flowing hair, which sets it apart from other spider monkey species. Its coat is predominantly dark, with a contrasting white or pale cream-colored belly, giving rise to its common name. The monkey’s slender build and lengthy tail enable it to navigate the dense canopy of its forest habitat with exceptional agility.
Distribution
This species is primarily found in the north-western Amazon region, encompassing Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru, and Brazil. Its range extends as far south as the lower Ucayali River and as far east as the Amazon Basin. Notably, the white-bellied spider monkey’s population density exhibits variations across its range, with conservation efforts focusing on protecting and restoring its habitats in these regions.
Habitat Preferences
The white-bellied spider monkey thrives in the lush, tropical rainforests of the Amazon, where it relies on the dense canopy and abundant fruit-bearing trees for sustenance and shelter. These ecosystems provide the ideal environment for the species to exhibit its adept arboreal behavior, swinging through the treetops and foraging for a diverse array of fruits, leaves, nuts, seeds, and occasionally arachnids and insects.
Overall, the white-bellied spider monkey’s survival and well-being are intricately linked to the preservation of its biodiverse rainforest habitats, making conservation efforts crucial for the long-term viability of this endangered species.
Facts About White-bellied spider monkey
- The diet of White-bellied spider monkeys is 83% mature fruits, and they are important for the seed dispersal of many fruit-bearing species.
- White-bellied spider monkeys, Ateles belzebuth, are found in the northeastern portion of the Amazon in South America.
Ateles belzebuth is listed as an endangered species, with populations having declined by at least 50% in the last five decades. - White-bellied spider monkeys have large home ranges of 150-400 hectares with little overlap between them.
They are also known as long-haired or white-fronted spider monkeys. - On average, white-bellied spider monkeys weigh about six kilograms.
These monkeys are characterized by their long arms and hook-like hands. - The white-bellied spider monkey is an important species for the seed dispersal of many fruit-bearing plants in its habitat.
The species is known for its agile and acrobatic movements in the forest canopy. - White-bellied spider monkeys play a crucial role in maintaining the diversity and health of the Amazon rainforest through their seed dispersal activities.