old world monkeys list

2 min read 10-12-2024

Old World monkeys, comprising the superfamily Cercopithecoidea, represent a diverse group of primates found across Africa and Asia. These fascinating creatures exhibit a wide range of adaptations and behaviors, making them a captivating subject of study. This article provides a comprehensive list of Old World monkey species, categorized for easier navigation. Understanding the diversity within this group highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these incredible animals.

Understanding Old World Monkey Classification

Before diving into the list, it's helpful to understand the basic classification. Old World monkeys are divided into two families: Cercopithecidae (the majority) and Hylobatidae (gibbons, often considered apes). This article focuses solely on the Cercopithecidae family, which is further subdivided into subfamilies and genera.

Key Characteristics of Old World Monkeys

Several key features distinguish Old World monkeys from their New World counterparts:

Downward-facing nostrils: Unlike New World monkeys, their nostrils open downward.
Non-prehensile tails: Most Old World monkeys lack a prehensile tail (a tail capable of grasping).
Diverse Habitats: They inhabit a wider range of habitats, from forests and savannas to mountains and even urban areas.
Complex Social Structures: Many exhibit intricate social structures, including hierarchical systems and complex communication.

A List of Old World Monkey Species (by Subfamily)

This list is not exhaustive as new species are still being discovered and classifications updated. It aims to represent the major groups and some prominent species. Remember that many species contain several subspecies.

Subfamily Cercopithecinae (cheek pouch monkeys)

This subfamily is characterized by cheek pouches used for food storage.

Genus Cercopithecus: This genus contains numerous species, including:
- Diana monkey (Cercopithecus diana)
- Red-tailed monkey (Cercopithecus ascanius)
- Mona monkey (Cercopithecus mona)
- De Brazza's monkey (Cercopithecus neglectus)
- Allen's swamp monkey (Cercopithecus sclateri)
- Many more...
Genus Chlorocebus: These are commonly known as green monkeys.
- Vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus)
- Samango monkey (Chlorocebus mitis)
- Grivet monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops)
Genus Erythrocebus:
- Patas monkey (Erythrocebus patas)
Genus Miopithecus (Talapoin monkeys):
- Talapoin monkey (Miopithecus talapoin)
- Red-tailed monkey (Miopithecus ogouensis)

Subfamily Colobinae (leaf-eating monkeys)

This subfamily features monkeys adapted to a leaf-based diet. Their stomachs are specialized for digesting tough plant matter.

Genus Colobus: These are the colobus monkeys.
- Black colobus (Colobus satanas)
- Red colobus (Procolobus badius)
- Many other Colobus species exist across Africa.
Genus Nasalis:
- Proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) - Famous for its large nose.
Genus Presbytis: These are langurs, found in Asia.
- Dusky langur (Trachypithecus obscurus)
- Many other Trachypithecus species including various spectacled langurs.
Genus Semnopithecus: More Asian langurs.
- Hanuman langur (Semnopithecus entellus) - A sacred monkey in India.

Subfamily Papioninae (baboons, macaques, etc.)

This subfamily includes some of the most well-known Old World monkeys.

Genus Papio (baboons):
- Hamadryas baboon (Papio hamadryas)
- Yellow baboon (Papio cynocephalus)
- Olive baboon (Papio anubis)
- Chacma baboon (Papio ursinus)
- Guinea baboon (Papio papio)
Genus Macaca (macaques):
- Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)
- Japanese macaque (Macaca fuscata)
- Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus) - The only macaque found in North Africa.
- Many other Macaca species across Asia.
Genus Theropithecus:
- Gelada (Theropithecus gelada)

Conservation Status and Threats

Many Old World monkey species face significant threats, including habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure their survival for future generations. Supporting organizations dedicated to primate conservation is a vital step in protecting this remarkable group of animals.

This list provides a starting point for exploring the incredible diversity within the Old World monkey family. Further research into individual species will reveal even more fascinating aspects of their biology, behavior, and ecology. Remember that classification can be fluid, and new discoveries and phylogenetic analyses continue to reshape our understanding.