The hindlimbs are longer than the forelimbs. This is a dimorphic species with the males having a black colored body and black ear tufts, with the females having a brownish colored body, black face, and white ear tufts. The average body mass is around 2.5 kilograms. This species is found in the west of Madagascar, in the rainforests. Primarily the black lemur eats leaves, also eating fruits and flowers.
Protein is derived from arthropods.
Black lemurs form larger groups during the night that serve the purpose as foraging groups, consisting of sizes from 5-15 individuals. Females are the dominant member of the group. As with all of the true lemurs, olfactory communication is important for the black lemur.