The destruction of tropical rain forests and threats from hunting pose the greatest challenge to the Black spider monkey’s survival. Rain forest habitats are increasingly in need of urgent protection and as an important seed disperser, the survival of the black spider monkey is vital in maintaining the overall health of the biome. There are several programs that are underway to protect and enhance the viability of these species.
Some of them include: World Wild Life Foundation (WWF), Primate Specialist Group (PSG) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). How do they help? World Wild Life Foundation (WWF)
To help stop deforestation and destruction of the black spider monkey’s habitat, WWF works to protect the forests they need to survive. They support the creation and management of protected areas and promote responsible forest management, including Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, outside of protected areas.
Primate Specialist Group (PSG)
The PSG are a group of scientists and conservationists who promote research on ecology and conservation of several primate species. It has been told that now one in every four primate species are listed threatened or endangered only because of forest destruction and over hunting. The PSG works on enhancing the viability of these species by supporting research and taking conservation measures.
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
Although CITES is not a program, it still lends a hand on protecting species at risk. The Black spider monkey species are protected in some areas across its range; it receives this protection from international trade under its listing on Appendix II CITES. Even though illegal hunting still continues in some areas, the species is legally protected in French Guiana, although the laws are sometimes poorly enforced.