GORILLA

Contents hide

1) Introduction

2) Classification of Gorilla

3) Geographical distribution

4) Habit and habitat

5) General Characteristics of Gorilla

6) Ecological Importance

7) Conservation Status

8) Special features

9) Identification

Introduction

Gorillas are the largest living primates and belong to the genus Gorilla. They are divided into two species: the eastern gorilla (Gorilla beringei) and the western gorilla (Gorilla gorilla), each with subspecies such as the mountain gorilla and the western lowland gorilla. Native to the forests of central and western Africa, gorillas are known for their intelligence, strong social bonds, and vital roles in forest ecosystems.

Classification of Gorilla

Phylum :- Chordata (Dorsal tubular nerve cord, notochord and gill-slits present.)
Group :- Craniata (Definite head, Cranium with brain present.)
Sub phylum :- Vertebrata (Vertebral column present.)
Division :- Gnathostomata (Jaws and paired appendages present.)
Super Class :- Tetrapoda (Paired limbs, lungs, cornified skin and bony skeleton.)
Class :- Mammalia (Body covered with hairs. Females have mammary glands.)
Order :- Primates (Head turns easily on neck.)
Family :- Hominidae
Genus :- Gorilla

Geographical distribution

Equatorial African forests of Cameron and Congo.

Habit and habitat

Lives chiefly on ground leading social life. Forming family group of 30. Nomadic primate. Ferocious, untamable.

General Characteristics of Gorilla

Gorilla represents largest and heaviest of the primates measuring about 6 feet and measuring about 300 kg.
Body divisible into heavily built head, neck, trunk and abdomen.
Mountain gorilla are covered with black fur and low land gorilla with brown fur.
Size 1.8 meters tall. Weight about 250 kg Except fingers and toes entire body is covered by hairs.
Body inclined. Walks semierect on plantigrade soles of feet aided by knuckles of hands.
Head contains eyes, nostrils and bulging mouth lips.
Feeds on plants foliage and fruits.

Ecological Importance

Seed Dispersal: Gorillas consume a diet rich in fruits, and their droppings help disperse seeds over vast areas, facilitating forest regeneration and biodiversity.
Maintaining Forest Health: By foraging on leaves, shoots, and other vegetation, gorillas influence plant growth and forest composition, contributing to ecosystem balance.
Nutrient Cycling: Their activities, such as digging for roots or creating trails, contribute to nutrient redistribution in the soil.
Indicator Species: Gorillas are sensitive to environmental changes, making their presence a marker of forest ecosystem health.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List Status:

Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla): Critically Endangered.
- Western Lowland Gorilla: Critically Endangered.
- Cross River Gorilla: Critically Endangered.
Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla beringei): Endangered.
- Mountain Gorilla: Endangered.
- Grauer’s Gorilla (Eastern Lowland Gorilla): Critically Endangered.

Threats to Survival:

Habitat Destruction: Logging, mining, and agricultural expansion reduce their forest homes.
Poaching: Gorillas are hunted for bushmeat, trophies, and illegal pet trade.
Disease: Gorillas are highly susceptible to diseases like Ebola and human-transmitted illnesses.
Human Conflict: Armed conflicts in their range disrupt populations and habitats.

Conservation Efforts:

Protected Areas: Many gorillas live in national parks such as Virunga, Bwindi Impenetrable, and Loango.
Anti-Poaching Measures: Rangers and patrols actively prevent illegal hunting.
Habitat Restoration: Reforestation projects aim to recover lost habitats.
Community-Based Programs: Local communities are involved in ecotourism and education to reduce conflicts.
International Cooperation: Gorillas are protected under CITES Appendix I, banning international trade.

Special features

Hands elongated touching grounds. Hind limbs short. Gorilla lives in territorial family group of 10-20 animals dominated by an old polygamous male.
Highly Social Creatures: Gorillas live in family groups led by a dominant silverback male, which provides protection and leadership.
Intelligence: Gorillas exhibit advanced cognitive abilities, including tool use, problem-solving, and emotional expression.
Communication Skills: They use a range of vocalizations, gestures, and facial expressions to communicate within their groups.
Physical Adaptations:
- Strong jaws and teeth for chewing tough vegetation.
- Powerful arms and hands for climbing, knuckle-walking, and foraging.
Distinctive Physical Traits: Adult males develop a “silverback” (gray hair along their backs) and larger crests on their skulls to support powerful jaw muscles.