In the rural settlement of Gleba Mercedes, located in the municipality of Sinop in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil, an extraordinary situation is unfolding with the zogue-zogue, a species of primates threatened by deforestation and in danger of extinction.
The species known scientifically as Plecturocebus grovesi is also facing the rising waters caused by a hydroelectric reservoir, which has left them trapped in a small fragment of forest, less than four soccer fields in size, with no possibility of migrating to other habitats.
This case exemplifies the impact of deforestation and the expansion of agribusiness in the region known as the “arc of deforestation”.
Deforestation and a Hydroelectric Reservoir Endanger the Zogue-Zogue
Environmental studies reveal that the species has already lost more than 40% of its natural habitat due to deforestation in Brazil, and if this pace continues, 80% of its population could disappear in the next 20 years.
On the other side of their forest, the monkeys face a second barrier: a lagoon created by the reservoir of the Sinop Hydroelectric Plant, which is part of a complex of four plants on the Teles Pires River.
This body of water approximately 300 meters between both shores is an insurmountable obstacle for the zogue-zogue. Furthermore, the impacts of the reservoir not only affect the primates but also the aquatic biodiversity; trees not properly removed before operating rot underwater, harming the fish.
Sinop Energía, the company operating the reservoir and owned by EDF Brasil and Eletrobras, claims to comply with all environmental regulations and maintains programs to monitor water and fauna quality.
Local Reforestation Initiative
In response to this critical situation, several community members and the support of organizations such as the Ecotóno Institute and the Movement of People Affected by Dams (MAR), launched a reforestation project in 2024. In a deforested hectare of land near the forest, seeds of 47 native species were planted, with the aim of connecting the monkeys’ habitat with other green areas.
This initiative aims to create a forest corridor that allows the primates to migrate and expand their territory. It is estimated that within five to seven years, the vegetation could triple the space available for the zogue-zogue family, marking a significant step towards their conservation.
An Urgent Call to Action
The case of the zogue-zogue in Mato Grosso reflects the dilemmas faced by endangered species, trapped between human activities and the degradation of their habitats.
The local community, together with environmental organizations, demonstrates that reforestation initiatives can be an effective tool to preserve biodiversity. However, these actions require continuous support and compliance with environmental responsibilities by the companies involved.
With a collaborative approach and sustainable strategies, there is still the possibility of reversing human impact and ensuring a future for these unique primates.
Cover photo: Pablo Porciúncula / AFP
