Macaque

Macaques are a genus of Old World monkeys in the genus Macaca.

Macaques are a genus of Old World monkeys in the genus Macaca, native mainly to Asia, with the Barbary macaque extending into North Africa and southern Europe. They are among the most geographically widespread nonhuman primates and are known for living in social groups. Several species have been widely used in biomedical and behavioural research.

Classification and range

Macaques are primates in the genus Macaca, within the family Cercopithecidae. They are described as a largely Asian group, with one species, the Barbary macaque, native to North Africa and Gibraltar.

Physical and behavioural traits

Macaques are medium-sized Old World monkeys, often described as sturdy and social. Many species have cheek pouches for carrying food, and some have long tails, short tails, or no tail.

Species diversity

The number of recognized macaque species varies by source, with counts in the low-to-mid twenties. This reflects taxonomic revision over time and differing classification standards.

Relationship with humans

Macaques have long been studied in science, especially rhesus macaques, which have been important in medical and psychological research. Some species also live near people and can adapt to human-dominated environments.