What is the Black Spider Monkey?
The Black Spider Monkey is one of the largest primates in South America. Scientists refer them as Ateles paniscus, though their commonly name is Guiana and red-faced spider monkey.
Where does it live, what is its natural habitat?
What does it eat? What is its role in the ecosystem?
They live in tropical or subtropical moist broadleaf forests. Specifically, eastern South America in areas north of the Amazon River. Being one of the seven species of spider monkeys found in Latin America.
Red-faced spider monkey's are omnivore's, eating plant foods. Such as, leaves, seeds, grains, nuts, fruits, eggs, and insects. Its role in the ecosystem is important because they play a key role in seed disperal, dispersing the undigested seeds through their manure, thus sprouting and replenishing the rainforest vegetation. Allowing their forrest environment to continue thriving.
Features of the animal.
Causes of the endangerment.
These monkeys are vulnerable to being endangered. A quick decline in population is due to hunting and human encroachment on its range of habitation. The destruction of tropical rainforests along with threats from hunting impact the greatest challenge to the black spider monkey’s survival. They prefer mature tropical forests and seldom venture into disturbed habitats, making them in danger of the effects of forest fragmentation.
What can we do?
We can help the Black Spider Monkey. We can protect their home. For instance, WWF works to protect the forests they need to survive. WWF supports the management of protected areas and promotes responsible forest management, including Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, outside of protected areas. Their population has declined by a half. Protect these animals.