For Immediate Release
Scientists at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
Discover New Lemur Species in Madagascar
Omaha, NE (October 7, 2015) – Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium’s Conservation
Genetics Department and the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership have identified a new lemur
species in Madagascar.
This is the 23rd lemur species that has been discovered by the Zoo since it began its conservation
efforts on the island nation in 1999.
The species, a type of dwarf lemur, was found in northern Madagascar’s Montagne d’Ambre
National Park, a highly diverse area made up of montane and mid-altitude rainforest and dry,
deciduous forest. The national park is home to many microendemic plants and wildlife, meaning
they are exclusive to this small part of the world.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium’s scientists assessed the genetic differences between
other lemurs in the same genus, among other comprehensive research, before publishing their
findings in a scientific journal.
The lemur, similar in size to a small squirrel, is reddish-brown in color with a white underside and
has brownish-black rings around the eyes. It has been named Andy Sabin’s dwarf lemur, in honor
of New York businessman and philanthropist Andy Sabin, who has supported many global
environmental projects. The species, also known as the Montagne d’Ambre dwarf lemur, is
recognized by its scientific name Cheirogaleus andysabini.
More than 90 percent of all lemurs—arboreal primates—are at risk or vulnerable to extinction,
according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species,
but the status of Andy Sabin’s dwarf lemur is currently unknown. Montagne d’Ambre National
Park’s close proximity to the town of Joffreville and large port city of Antisiranana puts the species
at risk of extinction due to habitat destruction and hunting.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium’s Conservation Genetics Department, led by Dr.
Edward Louis, continues to be the leader in lemur conservation and research. Sixteen years ago, the
Zoo established the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership, a Malagasy non-governmental
organization, to help preserve and protect Madagascar’s unique biodiversity and lemur populations.
The organization has camp sites in four of the country’s cities—Analamazaotra, Kianjavato,
Lavavolo and Antsiranana—and has implemented many community involvement projects.
The Zoo spends about $1 million annually on in-house scientists and has spent an additional
$500,000 in recent years on conservation efforts beyond the Zoo’s day-to-day reach.
--30-Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is ranked one of the best zoos in the world by
TripAdvisor and is the top family friendly attraction by FamilyFun Magazine. Currently open daily
from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fall general admission prices are $15.95 for adults (12-64), $14.95 for seniors
(65 and older) and $10.95 for children (3-11) through October 31. Winter pricing can be found on
the Zoo’s website, OmahaZoo.com.