“Scientists hope DNA analysis will reveal the origins of large, mysterious apes discovered in the heart of Africa.
Genetics research started this week at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo on fecal samples collected this summer from the rare apes to determine if they make up a new species, a new subspecies or some form of hybrid รณ possibly a mix between a chimpanzee and a gorilla.
“It’s a new, mystery ape and we are doing the DNA fingerprinting to find out more,” said Dr. Lee Simmons, zoo director.
The apes, which stand five to six feet tall and have feet nearly 14 inches long, were first documented last year by primatologist Shelly Williams of Atlanta in a forest in the northern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.” MORE
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