![]() Unlike most monkeys, neither apes nor humans have an external tail. On average, males are 5-10% larger than females and are more muscular. Humans and apes share all the same bones, though they may differ in shape or size, and they also share the same arrangement of internal organs. In comparison, humans share 93% of DNA with rhesus monkeys (1). In fact, we share about 98% of our DNA with chimpanzees and bonobos and are more closely related to them than they are to gorillas or any other primates. The great apes – chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas, and orangutans – are closest related to humans. They also have comparatively large brains (3). In comparison to other animals of their size, primates have long gestation periods, long childhoods, and live significantly longer. ![]() Almost all primates have 10 fingers and 10 toes with nails instead of claws, opposable thumbs or big toes, and tactile finger pads – all characteristics that allow them to grasp and manipulate food or other objects skillfully. With this increase in visual capabilities, most primates have evolved small noses and rely less on their sense of smell. For example, primates have eyes that face forward and are close together, creating 3-D vision that is also in color. There are many common features among primates. What are these differences? What makes us human? Although monkeys, apes, and humans differ from one another, as primates, they share many common features that distinguish them from other animals. That’s because along with monkeys and apes, humans are primates, too (1,2,5). When is the last time you received an email from a primate? Chances are, it was not long before you started reading this. Monkey, Apes, and Humans: How are we different?īy Breanne Cyr, Primates Incorporated Volunteer
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