What is the Difference Between Gorilla and Chimpanzee?

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Gorillas and chimpanzees are both primate species with some similarities, but they also have distinct differences. Here are the main differences between gorillas and chimpanzees:

  1. Size and appearance: Gorillas are generally larger than chimpanzees, with more pronounced arms, muscles, and chests. Male gorillas have black faces, while chimpanzees have pink faces. Mountain gorillas have small ears on the back of their heads, while chimpanzees have larger ears.
  2. Intelligence and behavior: Chimpanzees have larger brains compared to gorillas, making them more cunning and tricky. They are also more aggressive and unpredictable, while gorillas are considered stronger but less likely to attack.
  3. Habitat and diet: Gorillas are mostly herbivorous, eating leaves, nettles, roots, stems, and some fruit, while chimpanzees are frugivorous, consuming more fruit and leaves.
  4. Social structure: Gorillas live in smaller, more stable groups led by a dominant adult male, while chimpanzees live in larger, more fluid groups with a less defined hierarchy.
  5. Strength: Gorillas are generally stronger than chimpanzees.

Despite these differences, both species share about 90% of their DNA with humans and live in forests, making them vulnerable to human encroachment and habitat loss.

Comparative Table: Gorilla vs Chimpanzee

Here is a table comparing the differences between gorillas and chimpanzees:

Feature Gorilla Chimpanzee
Genus Gorilla Pan
Size 3-6 feet tall; 200-500 pounds 3-5 feet tall; 50-150 pounds
Appearance Huge shoulders, broad body; black thick hair covering body except for face, palms, and feet. Males get silver in color as they age Sparse black hair covering everywhere but their palms, face, and soles of their feet; large ears and fingers. Lean body
Habitat Build nests in trees or on the ground Prefer to build nests in trees
Diet Herbivorous Omnivorous
Intelligence Smaller brain compared to chimpanzees Larger brain compared to gorillas
Endangered Yes, both species are endangered Yes, both species are endangered

Gorillas are larger and more muscular than chimpanzees, with a more pronounced appearance. They are herbivorous and build their nests either in trees or on the ground. Chimpanzees, on the other hand, have a more lean and agile build with longer arms and a slender body. They are omnivorous and prefer to build their nests in trees. Both species are endangered, and they share about 90% DNA with humans.