Anthropoidea

Definition

Anthropoidea refers to a suborder of primates that includes monkeys, apes, and humans, distinguishing them from other primates like prosimians. This group is characterized by advanced brain development, a reliance on vision over smell, and the presence of forward-facing eyes that enhance depth perception. The anthropoid primates are often classified into two infraorders: Platyrrhini (New World monkeys) and Catarrhini (Old World monkeys, apes, and humans).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anthropoids are generally larger than prosimians and have more complex social structures and behaviors.
2. The brain size of anthropoids is significantly larger relative to their body size compared to other primates, indicating higher cognitive abilities.
3. Anthropoids exhibit a variety of adaptations for locomotion, including brachiation in some apes and quadrupedalism in many monkeys.
4. Vision is the dominant sense in anthropoids, allowing them to thrive in diverse environments with well-developed color vision.
5. The social behaviors of anthropoids can vary widely, with some species exhibiting monogamous pair bonding while others live in large social groups.

Review Questions

• How do the anatomical features of anthropoids differentiate them from prosimians?
  • Anthropoids differ from prosimians in several key anatomical features. They tend to have larger brains relative to body size, which supports advanced cognitive functions. Additionally, anthropoids possess forward-facing eyes that enhance depth perception and a reliance on vision rather than olfaction. Their skeletal structure also reflects adaptations for varied modes of locomotion, with many species showing flexibility for both arboreal and terrestrial environments.
• Discuss the significance of the division between Platyrrhini and Catarrhini within the anthropoid classification.
  • The division between Platyrrhini and Catarrhini is significant as it highlights the evolutionary adaptations and ecological niches occupied by these two groups of anthropoids. Platyrrhini includes New World monkeys with unique features such as flat noses and prehensile tails adapted for life in trees. In contrast, Catarrhini encompasses Old World monkeys and apes, which show different adaptations like downward-facing nostrils. This classification reflects not only their physical differences but also their varied evolutionary histories and ecological strategies.
• Evaluate how the social structures of anthropoids contribute to their adaptability in different environments.
  • The social structures of anthropoids play a crucial role in their adaptability across diverse environments. Species that live in larger groups often exhibit complex social hierarchies that facilitate cooperation in foraging and predator defense. This social dynamic allows them to exploit various resources effectively while also enhancing individual survival rates through communal care. Additionally, social learning within these groups enables the transmission of knowledge about food sources or safe nesting sites, further increasing their adaptability to changing environments.

Related terms

Prosimians: A suborder of primates that includes lemurs and tarsiers, which are more primitive compared to anthropoids.

Platyrrhini: An infraorder within Anthropoidea that includes New World monkeys, characterized by their flat noses and prehensile tails.

Catarrhini: An infraorder within Anthropoidea that includes Old World monkeys and apes, including humans, recognized by their downward-facing nostrils.