Primates are a diverse group of mammals classified under the order Primates. This order includes a wide range of species, including humans, apes, monkeys, lemurs, and tarsiers. Primates are characterized by several key features:
- Forward-facing eyes: This allows for stereoscopic vision, providing better depth perception.
- Flexible limbs and grasping hands: Many primates have opposable thumbs or toes, which enable them to grasp objects and navigate their environments skillfully.
- Highly developed brain: Primates typically have larger brains relative to body size compared to other mammals, which is often associated with advanced social behaviors and problem-solving capabilities.
- Social structures: Many primates live in social groups, which can vary in complexity and size, and display a range of social behaviors and relationships.
- Varied diets: Primates can be omnivorous, herbivorous, frugivorous, or insectivorous, depending on the species.
The order Primates is divided into several suborders, including Strepsirrhini (lemurs and lorises) and Haplorhini (tarsiers, monkeys, and apes), with humans being part of the family Hominidae within the apes. Primates are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, but some species have adapted to a wide range of habitats.