Which two recognized subspecies comprise the Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla)?

Answer

Western Lowland Gorilla and Cross River Gorilla

The Western Gorilla species, scientifically designated as *Gorilla gorilla*, is distinctly partitioned into two recognized conservation units based on geography and population dynamics. These two specific subspecies are the Western Lowland Gorilla (*Gorilla gorilla gorilla*) and the Cross River Gorilla (*Gorilla gorilla diehli*). Although they belong to the same overarching species group, their distinct geographical ranges and population levels necessitate them being managed separately for conservation purposes. The distinction between these two subspecies is fundamental to understanding the current threats, as the Lowland Gorilla has a wider, though patchy, distribution, while the Cross River Gorilla is severely restricted to a minuscule border region.

Related Questions

Which two recognized subspecies comprise the Western Gorilla (*Gorilla gorilla*)?Which two nations hold the largest remaining populations of the Western Lowland Gorilla?What specific forest type, besides dense tropical forest, do Western Lowland Gorillas frequently inhabit?What is the approximate upper elevation limit reached by Western Lowland Gorillas?The Cross River Gorilla exists in a tiny area shared by which two sovereign nations?What is the estimated remaining population size for the critically endangered Cross River Gorilla?What conservation management challenge characterizes protecting the expansive Western Lowland Gorilla range?Which five nations cover the primary distribution area for the Western Lowland Gorilla subspecies?What fundamental division separates the world's gorilla populations mentioned first in the text?What does the wide vertical tolerance of Western Lowland Gorillas imply about their ecological flexibility?

location western Primate gorilla