Infraorder Catarrhini: A Fascinating Group of Primates Including Old World Monkeys, Apes, and Humans with Unique Features and Complex Social Behaviors.

Infraorder: Catarrhini

Old World Monkeys, Apes, Humans

Infraorder Catarrhini is a group of primates that includes Old World monkeys, apes and humans. Members of this group are characterized by many unique features such as a downward-facing nostril, a narrow nasal septum, and a dental formula of 2:1:2:3 in their permanent teeth.

Old World monkeys are found in Africa and Asia, and they typically have a tail. They are divided into two major families: Cercopithecidae (which includes macaques, baboons, and colobus monkeys) and Cercopithecinae (which includes guenons and vervet monkeys). Apes, which include gibbons, orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and humans, do not have tails.

One of the most distinctive features of Catarrhini is their social behavior. Members of this group engage in complex social interactions, including grooming, play, and communication through vocalizations and body language.

In terms of evolution, the Catarrhini group evolved from a common ancestor with the Platyrrhini (New World monkeys) about 40 million years ago. This split was caused by a physical barrier – the formation of the Atlantic Ocean – that isolated the two groups.

Overall, the Catarrhini group is a diverse and fascinating group of primates that includes both Old World monkeys and apes, with unique features and complex social behaviors.

More Answers: