Old World monkey

The Old World monkeys inhabit tropical forests, arid grasslands, and mountainous areas in a variety of countries such as South and East Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and some parts of Spain. There are abruptly 78 species of Old World Monkeys which fall under two subfamilies which are Cercopithecinae and Colobinae. Although there are many species the size range remains similar. The size of the monkeys is comparable to that of a small- medium sized dog. Some of the more popular species of Old World monkeys are baboons, mangabeys, mandrills, guenons, and patas.

Anatomy
Most Old World Monkey are medium sized, and stand upright on the back legs. Old world monkeys are distinguished from other monkeys by their larger facial appearance, such as their large eyes and elongated face. God gifted these animals with a large brain, and appendages( arms, legs, hands, feet). The average weight for these species ranges from about 9lb. to up to 30 lbs. Their nostrils are usually pointing downward, and their hind limbs are longer than their fore limbs. All of their fingers have nails attached at the tip. All species have prehensile tales, and have small pads on their buttocks.

Reproduction


Old World monkeys reproduce sexually. Birth usually occurs at night. As far as the number of offspring, there is usually one infant that is born.

Habitat
Many species of cercopithecines live or sleep in trees, and spend most of their time scavenging for food. Old world Monkeys are both arboreal(live in trees) and terrestrial. This ability allows the monkeys to live in a large variety of ecosystems.

Ecology
Generally, Old World Monkeys are herbivores. This particular species of monkey are equipped with bilophodont teeth that help to break down and digest leaves. Few species of the Old World Monkeys have adapted to eating nuts instead of leaves. But because of the range in ecosystems, a few species of monkeys eat crops. The availability of food largely determines if reproduction will occur.

Related References

 * Answers Encyclopedia
 * Palomar
 * Cambridge University