Mandrillus sphinx is a species of primate belonging to the family Cercopithecidae. It is commonly known as the mandrill and is found in the dense rainforests of Central Africa, primarily in Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
The mandrill is a large and highly distinctive monkey, recognized for its vibrant and striking coloration. Adult males exhibit a prominent, elongated face with a thick, red stripe running down the nose, colorful blue ridges on the cheeks, and a bright red-and-blue jaw. They possess large, complexly patterned, multicolored rumps, which serve as display structures during rituals and communication. Females, on the other hand, are smaller and lack the vivid facial features of males.
These primates are primarily omnivorous, feeding on a diverse array of fruits, seeds, leaves, and insects. They have strong and elongated canine teeth, which they utilize for self-defense and competition for mates and resources.
Socially, mandrills live in hierarchical groups, known as troops, consisting of multiple adult males, females, and their offspring. They communicate through a combination of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body postures.
Mandrillus sphinx is currently listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species due to habitat loss and hunting for bushmeat. Conservation efforts, including protected areas and anti-poaching measures, are crucial for the survival and well-being of mandrills in their natural habitat.
