How many different species of monkey are there? What are the differences between monkeys and humans?

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Accepted Answer

Species count: Approximately 334 (see above).Differences between monkeys and humans:FeatureMonkeysHumansBrain sizeSmaller relative to bodyMuch larger relative to bodyBipedalismWalk on all foursWalk upright on two legsTailMost have tailsNo tailLanguageCalls and gesturesComplex spoken and written languageTool useLimited (rocks, sticks)Advanced and diverseAbstract thinkingVery limitedHighly developedSocial complexityTroop social structuresComplex societies, laws, institutionsLifespan15–30 years typically70–80+ years typicallyDNA similarityMacaques ~93% similar to humans-Monkeys and humans share a common ancestor but diverged millions of years ago. Humans are more closely related to apes (chimpanzees share ~98.7% of human DNA) than to monkeys.

Feature	Monkeys	Humans
Brain size	Smaller relative to body	Much larger relative to body
Bipedalism	Walk on all fours	Walk upright on two legs
Tail	Most have tails	No tail
Language	Calls and gestures	Complex spoken and written language
Tool use	Limited (rocks, sticks)	Advanced and diverse
Abstract thinking	Very limited	Highly developed
Social complexity	Troop social structures	Complex societies, laws, institutions
Lifespan	15–30 years typically	70–80+ years typically
DNA similarity	Macaques ~93% similar to humans	-

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