Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Primates
- Family
- Cercopithecidae
- Genus
- Trachypithecus
Habitat
The Tenasserim lutung primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical evergreen forests in Southeast Asia, including regions of Myanmar, Thailand, and peninsular Malaysia. They prefer dense canopies and areas near rivers or swamps for easy access to food and water. This species avoids open areas, relying on tall trees for shelter and movement.
Diet
The Tenasserim lutung mainly consumes leaves, shoots, fruits, and flowers from various trees, with a preference for young, nutrient-rich foliage. They exhibit selective feeding behavior, spending hours foraging in the canopy to avoid less palatable plants. Feeding is primarily diurnal, with most activity occurring in the early morning and late afternoon.
Behavior
Tenasserim lutungs live in social troops of 5 to 20 individuals, typically led by a dominant male who defends the group. They are diurnal and highly arboreal, spending most of their time leaping between trees and communicating through vocalizations and gestures. Territorial behavior involves marking areas with calls and scents to ward off rival groups.
Conservation Status
The IUCN classifies the Tenasserim lutung as Vulnerable, with a decreasing population trend due to habitat loss from deforestation and hunting. Major threats include logging, agricultural expansion, and human encroachment in their range.