Black Uakari

Kingdom Order Family Genus Species
Animalia Primates Pitheciidae Cacajao Cacajao melanocephalus
IUCN Status: Least-Concern
  • Common Name: black uakari
  • Taxonomy Classification Year: 1812
  • Monkey Size: 36.5 to 48.5 cm (14.37 to 19.09 in)
  • Skin Color(s): Deep brown
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Diet: Herbivorous
  • Native Countries: Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil

black uakari Distribution

Black Uakari Characteristics

Also called the golden-backed black uakari, golden-backed uakari, and Homboldt’s black-headed uakari, the black uakari[1], is a species native to southwestern Venezuela, southeastern Colombia, and northwestern Brazil.

  • The black uakari has a short tail relative to its body size, with a tail length of less than 50 percent of the combined body and head length. In addition, its tail is not prehensile.
  • The species is further divided into 2 subspecies: C. m. ouakary is distinguished by a yellowish or golden nape and mid-dorsum from C. m. melanocephalus, in which these body regions are black to reddish-brown.
  • The rest of the body is dark brown, except for the abovementioned areas that distinguish the subspecies.
  • The lower jaw is deep in the region of the symphysis and exceptionally robust.

Black Uakari Facts

  • The face of Cacajao melanocephalus is black and bare, hence the common name “black uakari” or “black-faced uakari“. The hands and lower limbs are black too.
  • Although their canines are known to be up to 14 mm long, like their incisors, they are a critical food specialization, allowing them to consume hard fruits and thick-shelled seeds.
  • Social grooming is this primate’s most common tactile behavior. In addition to strengthening social bonds, social grooming helps remove parasites and dead skin cells.
  • The females issue a scent to attract a male suitor to reproduce.
  • Because they often eat ripe fruit and fruit seeds, the black uakari, like most frugivores, plays a vital role in seed dispersal.

Suggested Reading: All Types of Monkeys

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BioExplorer.net. (2024, March 28). Black Uakari. Bio Explorer. https://www.bioexplorer.net/animals/mammals/monkeys/black-uakari/.
BioExplorer.net. "Black Uakari" Bio Explorer, 28 March 2024, https://www.bioexplorer.net/animals/mammals/monkeys/black-uakari/.
BioExplorer.net. "Black Uakari" Bio Explorer, March 28 2024. https://www.bioexplorer.net/animals/mammals/monkeys/black-uakari/.
Key References
  • [1]“BLACK-HEADED UAKARI”. Accessed December 10, 2022. Link.

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