A Bornean orangutan.
There are two species of orangutans, the Sumatran orangutan (Pongo abelii) and Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus), both named for the islands on which they live. Both species weigh about 60 to 200 lbs., with the females being smaller. Physical features and DNA differences differentiate the two species. Physically, Sumatran orangutans have white fur on their faces and longer facial fur.
Sumatran Orangutan
Found only on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia, the Sumatran orangutans are now limited to the northern range of the island, according to the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology. Their habitat consists of various forest types including tropical lowland, swamp and riparian.
Bornean Orangutan
Just east of Sumatra across the South China Sea, the Bornean orangutans inhabit much of the northern and western parts of the island. Like the Sumatran orangutan, this species also lives in the many types of forests found on the island.
Role in their Habitat
Both species of orangutan are considered keystone species, according to the Environmental Investigation Agency. As keystone species, the mammals play a large role in their habitat's design. They disperses seeds throughout the forest when eating fruits and trim trees when eating leaves and making nests. Without the orangutans, their habitat would change dramatically.
Tags: Bornean orangutan, Both species, keystone species, orangutan Pongo, Sumatran orangutan, Sumatran orangutans