Muriquis do Sossego Project
Conserving the Northern Muriqui in Mata do Sossego.
About the Muriquis do Sossego Project
Launched in 2011, the Muriquis do Sossego Project is dedicated to the continuous monitoring and assessment of the only population of northern muriquis (Brachyteles hypoxanthus) in Mata do Sossego, in Simonésia, MG. Our goal is to ensure the survival of this critically endangered species through research and strategic management.
The Importance of Mata do Sossego
Mata do Sossego is a forest fragment of approximately 800 hectares of well-preserved Atlantic Forest, which includes the RPPN Mata do Sossego and the RPPN Sossego do Muriqui (Mineração Curimbaba). This site is the exclusive habitat of the group of northern muriquis we monitor, making it a crucial location for the conservation of the species.
Project Team
Partnerships and Funding
The Muriquis do Sossego Project has been made possible thanks to the ongoing support of key institutions. Since 2011, we have had logistical and administrative support from Fundação Biodiversitas and, since 2015, from Muriqui Instituto de Biodiversidade. Funding for our operations has been provided by:
- Fundação Grupo Boticário de Proteção à Natureza (2012-2014)
- Primate Action Fund / Global Wildlife Conservation (2015-2022)
Monitoring Methodology
Our monitoring follows the rigorous demographic protocol developed by Dr. Karen B. Strier. Each muriqui is individually recognized and followed, allowing an accurate count of births and deaths. This gives us a clear picture of population trends over more than a decade.
Current Challenges for the Population
Results from the past ten years indicate that the muriqui population in Mata do Sossego faces significant challenges, including demographic and environmental stochasticity and loss of genetic diversity. Geographic isolation and the absence of another social group are critical factors hindering population growth.
We are considering management measures such as translocating breeding females and introducing mixed groups to restore gene flow.
Commitment and Compliance
Our project is duly registered with SISBIO (no. 30786) and strictly follows all guidelines of the National Plan for the Conservation of Muriquis (PAN-Muriquis/ICMBio). This compliance ensures that all our research, monitoring and management activities are conducted in an ethical and responsible manner, ensuring scientific validity and the safety of all interventions.
We work closely with authorities and researchers to ensure that every step we take contributes effectively to the conservation of the species.
Why Is Our Project Essential?
Conserving the northern muriqui in Mata do Sossego is vital. Our long-term monitoring approach allows us to identify specific threats and provide robust scientific data for effective management. We assess demographic trends before and after interventions, ensuring that our actions, such as habitat protection and the fight against illegal hunting, have a real impact.
This continuous monitoring is crucial for evidence-based decisions and for protecting a critically endangered species.
Impact and Future
The Muriquis do Sossego Project contributes not only to the survival of the local muriqui population but also expands scientific knowledge about the species' ecology and behavior. The data collected are valuable for developing conservation strategies that can be applied to other muriqui populations in different regions. Our work is a long-term commitment to securing a future for the northern muriqui, an emblematic species of our biodiversity.