Symphalangus syndactylus

(Raffles, 1821)

Vernacular names
English : Siamang
French : Siamang

Classification
Class : Mammalia
Order : Primata
Family : Hylobatidae
Notes : No subspecies known. Some authors recognize two subspecies but their validity is doubted.

Identification
The largest gibbon species, growing to 90 cm in length for a weight of 12 kg. Pelage most often entirely black, some individuals having clear chin tufts and sometimes clear eyebrows. Large inflatable purplish-black throat sac.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in southeast Asia, in central and northern Peninsular Malaysia and most of Sumatra (Indonesia). Lives in primary and secondary tropical rainforests, up to 2000 meters asl.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix I
Status : The species is endangered by deforestation and habitat fragmentation. Collection for the pet trade and poaching are major threats as well.
Ex-Situ Programs : SSP in America, EEP in Europe

Observation

 

Back to “Great apes & Gibbons” page