Monkeys are a diverse and captivating group of primates that have intrigued scientists and the public for centuries. Their variety in size, behavior, and habitat reflects a complex evolutionary history that spans millions of years.
Monkeys are broadly classified into two groups: New World monkeys and Old World monkeys. New World monkeys, found in Central and South America, typically have prehensile tails and often live in the dense canopies of tropical rainforests. In contrast, Old World monkeys, native to Africa and Asia, usually have non-prehensile tails and display a range of adaptations that suit both arboreal and terrestrial lifestyles. Although they share many similarities with apes, monkeys are generally distinguished by their tails and certain anatomical differences, such as their shoulder structure and brain size.