MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Tombak, the Zoo’s longtime male Sumatran orangutan, has died, according to the Memphis Zoo.

He was 43 years old and lived "well beyond" the typical 23 to 30 years expected for his species, the zoo said in a statement.

They say he experienced an acute decline in health and died despite responsive measures taken by their veterinary team.

In 1994, Tombak came to Memphis at the age of 12, which was shortly after the Primate Canyon opened at the zoo. Tombak was said to have become one of the zoo's most iconic primates with his quiet but powerful presence and gentle but observant nature.

"Generations of visitors came to know him as a symbol of the wonder of orangutans and the importance of conserving this critically endangered species," the zoo said. • Tombak, the Sumatra

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