Ape
Apes are a group of primates that includes gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos and humans. They range in size from the small pygmy marmoset to the large silverback gorilla. Apes are distinguished from other primates by their larger brains, lack of tails and ability to walk upright for short distances. This combination of traits has enabled them to become some of the most intelligent animals on earth.
The evolutionary history of apes began approximately 25 million years ago when they diverged from Old World monkeys such as macaques and baboons. Since then there have been many species which have come into existence through natural selection and adaptation. The earliest known fossil ape is Proconsul africanus which was discovered in East Africa in 1925 and dates back 17-19 million years ago. From this point forward there were several different lineages leading up to modern day ape species including hominids, orangutans, gibbons and siamangs among others.
Humans share a common ancestor with chimpanzees which lived between five and seven million years ago in Central Africa during the late Miocene period (around 8–6 mya). Despite their similarities humans differ greatly from apes due to their increased brain size, use of tool making technology, complex language capabilities as well as advanced social organization all derived about two million years ago with Homo erectus – one of our direct ancestors who walked upright on two legs like modern day humans do today .
Ape behavior is equally fascinating with intelligence being displayed both individually as well as within groups living together within hierarchical societies led by alpha males or females depending upon species . Gorillas often live in family troops consisting only related individuals while chimps form communities where members interact daily . In each case these interactions can be quite elaborate involving communication using physical gestures , facial expressions , vocalizations , grooming rituals , resource sharing amongst troop members etc .
Lastly conservation efforts need special mention because human activities such as deforestation have drastically reduced ape habitats over recent decades thus leaving many populations endangered if not already extinct . Currently various international organizations exist for preserving what remains but more importantly educating people about why it’s so important that we protect these creatures before it’s too late !