Introduction
Capuchins and chimpanzees are incredibly intelligent primates with unique characteristics that make them so intriguing to study. Capuchins are known for their ability to recognize their own reflection, tool use, and intelligence; making them a popular primate attraction. Chimpanzees are the closest living cousin to the anatomically modern human sharing nearly 98% of DNA (Chang 2005). While these primates occupy different parts of the globe, they share many characteristics and offer unique insights for the field of anthropology. In this paper, I explore the parallels and differences between capuchins and chimpanzees.
Taxonomy
Capuchins have controversial taxonomy, as some primatologists have suggested separating them into two distinct genera: Sapajus and Cebus. These gracile and robust capuchins, respectively, are thought to have diverged during the late Miocene due to geographic isolation.…show more content… These monkeys are relatively small-bodies weighing at most 12 pounds. Capuchins are quadrupedal, possess prehensile tails, and have flat noses (Fragaszy 2004).
Chimpanzees are sexually dimorphic with females weighing between 72-100 pounds and males weighing between 100-130 pounds (Rowe 1996). Unlike capuchins, chimps lack a tail and have prognathism. They are characterized by big ears, pronounced superciliary arches, and prognathism. Their feet and hands are generally dark in color and fur varies from black to brown.
Just like capuchins, chimpanzees are quadrupedal brachiators and have an increased curvature of the phalanges which aids in knuckle-walking and swinging from trees. At times, chimps will engage in bipedalism due to an injury or to carry food, but it usually cannot be sustained (Kimura 1996).
Habitat and Range
Concentrated within the forests of the northern and southern South