THE NATURAL-HISTORY AND CONSERVATION OF THE SNUB-NOSED MONKEYS (GENUS RHINOPITHECUS)

The four species of the genus Rhinopithecus (Colobinae) are limited to Vietnam and China, but occupy diverse habitats ranging from Vietnam's tropical lowlands to China's temperate mountains. As a result, the genus displays a striking range of morphological and behavioral adaptations. The geographic distribution of member taxa is restricted, and extinction now threatens all members of the genus. This paper reviews the evolution, distribution, and ecology pertinent to the conservation of the four species of the genus Rhinopithecus, collectively known as the snub-nosed monkeys. Information fi om Chinese sources is synthesized and made available in English for the first time. As an endangered monophyletic group, this genus merits special attention in biological conservation.