What is the Difference Between Primates and Monkeys?

Primates and monkeys are both part of the primate order, but they belong to two distinct subcategories and have key differences. Here are some main areas to consider:

1. Tails: Almost all monkeys have tails, while apes do not.
2. Body size and shape: Apes are generally larger with wider chests and almost naked faces, while monkeys are smaller with more narrow chests and hair on their faces.
3. Locomotion: Monkeys tend to run along branches, whereas apes swing from branch to branch using their arms (a behavior called brachiating).
4. Intelligence: Apes are generally more intelligent than monkeys, and most species of apes exhibit some use of tools. While both monkeys and apes can use sounds and gestures to communicate, apes have demonstrated a higher ability with language.
5. Geography: Monkeys are found in Africa and Asia (old world monkeys) and from Mexico through South America (new world monkeys), while apes live in various parts of the world, including Africa and Asia.

By understanding these differences, you can better distinguish between monkeys and apes.

Comparative Table: Primates vs Monkeys

Here is a table comparing the differences between primates and monkeys:

Please note that this table compares primates in general to monkeys in general. Primates include apes (humans, gibbons, chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans, and gorillas) and monkeys (Old World and New World monkeys).