CATARRHINES Meaning and
Definition
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Catarrhines are a sub-group of primates belonging to the infraorder Catarrhini, which includes Old World monkeys and apes. They are characterized by certain anatomical features that distinguish them from their New World counterparts, the platyrrhines. The name "catarrhine" derives from the Greek words "katarrhēs" meaning "flowing down" or "discharging" and "rhinē" meaning "nose," highlighting their distinctive nasal anatomy.
One of the key features of catarrhines is their downward-facing nostrils, which are separated by a narrow nasal septum. This adaptation allows for better stereoscopic vision and depth perception, an important advantage in their arboreal lifestyle. Additionally, catarrhines possess a larger brain-to-body ratio compared to platyrrhines, emphasizing their advanced cognitive abilities. They usually have a more complex social structure and are often larger in size.
Catarrhines are further divided into two major families, Cercopithecidae and Hominidae. Cercopithecidae includes the various species of Old World monkeys, such as baboons, macaques, and vervet monkeys. Hominidae, on the other hand, encompasses the great apes, including orangutans, gorillas, bonobos, and the iconic humans.
These primates are found primarily in Africa, with certain species of macaques present in Asia. They exhibit diverse behaviors, habitats, and dietary preferences. Catarrhines have been extensively studied due to their close evolutionary relationship with humans, aiding in our understanding of primate evolution, behavior, and physiology.
Etymology of CATARRHINES
The word "catarrhines" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from the Greek words "katarro" meaning "to flow down" and "rhin" meaning "nose". "Catarrhines" is a taxonomic term used to refer to a group of primates that includes Old World monkeys, apes, and humans, characterized by downward-facing nostrils. This term reflects the anatomical feature of the primates in this group where the nostrils are pointed downward rather than sideways or forward as seen in other primates.
