Great apes
Great apes are the primates in the family Hominidae.
Great apes, also known as hominids, are the primates in the family Hominidae. They include orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and humans, and are distinguished from lesser apes by their larger bodies and lack of tails.
Classification
Great apes belong to the primate family Hominidae within the order Primates. Modern classifications recognize eight living species across four genera, including humans.
Members
The living great apes are orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and humans. These animals are grouped together because of shared anatomical and evolutionary traits.
Characteristics
Great apes are known for relatively large bodies, large brains, and the absence of tails. They are also noted for complex cognition and social behaviour.
Distribution and habitat
Non-human great apes are native to tropical forests in Africa and Southeast Asia. Orangutans occur in Borneo and Sumatra, while gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos are found in Africa.
Conservation
Many great ape populations are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and other human pressures. Several species are listed as endangered or critically endangered.
Key facts
- Great apes are a family of primates called Hominidae.
- They include four living genera: Pongo, Gorilla, Pan, and Homo.
- The living great ape species include orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and humans.
- Great apes are generally larger-bodied than lesser apes and lack tails.
- All non-human great apes live in Africa or Southeast Asia.
Canada has no native great ape species, but great apes are relevant to Canadian readers through wildlife conservation, zoo care, primatology research, and global biodiversity policy.
Frequently asked questions
What are great apes?
How many living species of great apes are there?
Are humans great apes?
What is the difference between great apes and lesser apes?
Where do great apes live?
Are great apes endangered?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_ApesSupports: Great apes as the family Hominidae; four living genera and eight living species.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/great-apeSupports: Great apes include orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos; distinction from lesser apes.
- Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/environment/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/hominidae-i-great-apesSupports: Classification, habitat, size, and conservation status overview for great apes.
- Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/great%20apeSupports: Definition of great ape as primates in Hominidae including orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos.
- NCBI Bookshelf — https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK232185/Supports: Taxonomic placement of apes in Hominoidea and Hominidae; discussion of alternative classifications.