Old World vs New World Monkeys

Below is an easy comparison table that will show you the major differences between old world monkeys and new world monkeys.

New World Monkeys Old World Monkeys
Size Small to medium sized primates Medium to large sized primates
Nose Scientific name for New World Monkeys is Platyrrhini which means “flat nosed”. Nostrils face sideways Scientific name for Old World monkeys is Catarrhines which means “narrow nosed”. Nostrils face downwards.
Tail Phrehensile tail (used like a 5th leg) Non-grasping tails
Vision Lack trichromatic vision (mono vision) – exception: Howler Monkey trichromatic vision (color vision)
Dental 12 premolars 8 premolars
Butt No Pads Have a pad for sitting
Trees Primary tree dwellers More varied habitat from rainforest to desert
Thumbs Thumb sits in line with other fingers Opposable thumbs
Pairing Form more monogamous pair bonds / both show substantial paternal care of young Less monogamous
Species Marmosets
Taramins
Howler Monkeys
Spider Monkeys
Woollys
Titi Monkey
Capuchins
Squirrel Monkeys
Owl Monkeys
Sakis
Uakaris
Baboons
Guenons
Macaques
Mangabeys
Patas
Colobus
Langurs
Leaf-monkeys
Proboscids

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