[1] The Betsileo sportive lemur was described in 2006 based on genetic samples and morphometrics collected in 2000 and 2004.

[5] The Betsileo sportive lemur is predominantly grayish to reddish-brown, with the back darker than the underside.

The fur in the ear auricle is light and bordered by dark hairs along the outer edge.

[4] Using niche modeling, a 2018 study estimated the species to occupy 1,167 km2 and have a population size of approximately 2,315 individuals.

[3] The main threats to the Betsileo sportive lemur is habitat loss due to agricultural practices, use and modification of biological resources, and unsustainable levels of hunting.