Quck answer
Monkeys and apes are both primates, but there are differences between them. Apes are generally larger than monkeys and have no tails. Apes also have a more complex brain structure and are capable of using tools. Monkeys, on the other hand, have tails and are usually smaller than apes. Monkeys are also more likely to live in trees and eat fruits and insects, while apes are more likely to live on the ground and eat a varied diet that includes leaves, fruits, and meat. So, while monkeys and apes may share some similarities, there are distinct differences between the two.
Wild Animals
What distinguishes apes from monkeys? Check out more photos of mammals to find out.
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Although apes and monkeys are both primates and belong to the same suborder, there are many distinctions between them. There are also other types of primates. The classification of different primate groups is based on physical characteristics and evolutionary lineage.
The primate order is characterized by animals with forward-facing eyes and highly flexible limbs and fingers. This body structure evolved as an adaptation for life in trees. Primates have nimble limbs and hands that can grasp branches to move around. The forward-facing eyes are also an adaptation for life in this environment; they provide primates with excellent depth perception, helping them to accurately judge the distance between trees.
There are 235 modern primate species that are divided into two suborders: prosimians and anthropoids. Lemurs and similar animals make up the more primitive group of prosimians. They exhibit less intelligence and more closely resemble other mammal groups (such as having whiskers and extended snouts). The prosimians split off from the evolutionary line leading to humans relatively early. Anthropoids, commonly referred to as “higher primates,” comprise the rest of the species in the primate order. Anthropoids vary significantly in size, geographic range, and behavior, but they all have flat faces, small ears, and relatively large, complex brains.
Anthropoids are further subdivided into monkeys, apes, and hominids. The easiest way to distinguish monkeys from the other anthropoids is by the presence of a tail. Most monkey species have tails, but apes and hominids do not. Monkeys are more like other mammals than apes and humans are. For example, most monkeys cannot swing from branch to branch, as apes and humans can, due to their shoulder bones having a different structure. Instead, monkeys run along the tops of branches. Their skeletal structure is similar to that of a cat, dog, or other four-legged animal, and they move in a similar way. On the evolutionary line leading to humans, monkeys diverged long before apes did.
Now, let’s delve into how scientists classify apes.
Types of Apes
Apes have more similarities to humans than monkeys.
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Gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and gibbons make up the apes, which are much more like humans than monkeys or lower primates. They share the same basic body structure, possess high intelligence, and exhibit similar behavior. Chimpanzees, humans’ closest living relatives, extensively use simple tools and even have culture to some degree. Different chimpanzee social groups develop their unique tendencies and behaviors, which may differ drastically from those of another group. Gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans also exhibit extensive language capability, though they lack the necessary physiological adaptations to produce speech. Scientists have taught apes of all three species to use sign language and special computer keyboards. Apes have even created their own words in these languages, demonstrating their higher cognitive ability.
The main difference between hominids and apes is their method of movement. While apes use all four limbs to walk on the ground, hominids have evolved to walk upright on two legs. This significant development in human evolution allowed our ancestors to free up their hands, which led to the use of tools while walking and contributed to the development of civilization. In addition to this, both humans and extinct hominids have larger brains and advanced reasoning capabilities.
It’s important to note that “ape” and “monkey” are not interchangeable terms. Apes, such as gorillas and chimpanzees, have evolved in parallel with humans and share a significant amount of genetic material with us (98% with chimpanzees). Apes are not monkeys on the evolutionary tree.
For more information on this topic, there are related articles available such as “How Bigfoot Works,” “How Your Brain Works,” and “What is a gene, and what is genetic engineering?” There are also links to resources such as “Becoming Human,” “The Jane Goodall Institute,” and “The Gorilla Foundation (with Koko, the famous signing gorilla).”
FAQ
1. What is the difference between monkeys and apes?
While monkeys and apes are both primates, there are distinct differences between them. Apes, such as gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans, are generally larger and do not have tails. Monkeys, on the other hand, are smaller and have longer tails. Apes also have more complex social structures and are capable of using tools, while monkeys are not.
2. Can monkeys and apes interbreed?
No, monkeys and apes cannot interbreed. While they are both primates, they are different enough genetically that they cannot produce offspring together.
3. Are monkeys smarter than apes?
No, apes are generally considered to be more intelligent than monkeys. Apes have larger brains and are capable of more advanced problem-solving and communication skills.
4. Which is more closely related to humans, monkeys or apes?
Apes are more closely related to humans than monkeys. In fact, humans are classified as great apes, along with chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans.
5. Do monkeys and apes have similar diets?
While monkeys and apes both eat primarily fruits and vegetables, there are differences in their diets. Apes tend to eat more leaves and stems, while monkeys eat more insects and small vertebrates.
6. Can monkeys and apes be kept as pets?
No, it is not recommended to keep monkeys or apes as pets. They require specialized care and can become dangerous as they mature.
7. Are there any endangered monkey or ape species?
Yes, there are many endangered monkey and ape species, including the orangutan, the gorilla, and the chimpanzee. Habitat loss and hunting are major threats to their survival.
8. Can monkeys and apes communicate with humans?
While monkeys and apes cannot speak human languages, some have been trained to communicate with humans using sign language or other methods.
9. Do monkeys and apes have different types of social structures?
Yes, monkeys and apes have different types of social structures. Monkeys tend to live in larger groups with a more hierarchical structure, while apes have smaller groups with a more equal social structure.
10. Are there any famous monkeys or apes?
Yes, there are many famous monkeys and apes, including Koko the gorilla, who was known for her use of sign language, and Curious George, the beloved children’s book character.
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