The proboscis monkey, endemic to Borneo, the third largest island in the world located in southeast Asia, is one of the most emblematic species of biodiversity in this region. The vast tropical rainforests, swamps, and riparian forests of Borneo are home to these monkeys, as well as other unique species such as orangutans and the pygmy elephant.
The dense treetops of the mangroves provide a safe place to rest and raise their young, while bodies of water serve as escape routes and connections between fragments of their habitat. The conservation of the proboscis monkey is essential for the survival of these unique ecosystems.
The Nose that Gives Name to the Monkey
The proboscis monkey owes its name to its prominent nose, especially noticeable in adult males, which can measure up to 10 centimeters. This peculiarity serves essential functions in their life. In males, the nose acts as a resonating chamber, amplifying low sounds that are heard through the dense mangroves.
These grunts are crucial for displaying dominance, soothing tensions within the group, and deterring potential rivals. Females prefer males with larger noses, as they are associated with stronger genetics and superior leadership abilities.
The Bulky Abdomen of the Proboscis Monkey
A peculiar characteristic of the proboscis monkey is its rounded and prominent abdomen, a result of its diet rich in leaves, unripe fruits, and seeds.
These foods are hard to digest due to their high fiber content, but the proboscis monkey has developed a specialized digestive system with multiple chambers.
Within these chambers, specific bacteria break down the fiber to extract essential nutrients, a process that consumes a lot of energy and requires the monkey to spend long hours resting.
Membranes in Hands and Feet: The Fins of a Natural Swimmer
The proboscis monkey is one of the few primates with adaptations for a semi-aquatic life. The membranes between its fingers, both on the hands and feet, act as small fins, allowing it to swim with agility and speed.
It can cross rivers and channels, reaching speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour in the water and diving up to 20 meters to evade predators or explore new territories in search of food.
An Acrobat of the Borneo Mangroves
Perfectly adapted to life in the trees, the proboscis monkey can make horizontal jumps of up to 10 meters between branches and leap from heights of up to 15 meters into the water without sustaining injuries.
Its long tail acts as a counterbalance, allowing it to maintain balance during these daring movements.
The Proboscis Monkey and the Protection of Mangroves
The mangroves of Borneo are essential ecosystems that protect the coasts, store carbon, and serve as a refuge for numerous plant and animal species.
By feeding on leaves and fruits, proboscis monkeys contribute to the natural regeneration of vegetation, acting as small gardeners of their environment. Their existence is intrinsically linked to the balance of these vital ecosystems.
Have you visited our YouTube channel yet? Subscribe now!
