Pan (genus), a genus of mammals in the family Cercopithecidae
The genus Pan is composed of two living and six extinct species of Old World monkeys. These primates are found in Africa, where they inhabit savannas, woodlands, and forests. The two living species are the common chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) and the bonobo (Pan paniscus). Both are endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. The four most well-known extinct species are P. robustus, P. crassus, P. africanus, and P. boisei. All four were once widespread across Africa but are now only found in certain regions or countries. Common chimpanzees are the largest members of the genus Pan, weighing up to 140 pounds (64 kilograms). Bonobos are slightly smaller than common chimps, with an average weight of 90 pounds (41 kilograms).
Pansids share many features with other cercopithecids including long arms and legs relative to body size, nails instead of claws on all digits except for the big toe which has a claw, forward facing eyes set close together that provide binocular vision, and large brains relative to body size when compared to other mammals. However, there are several key features that distinguish pansids from other cercopithecines. One such feature is their lack of tail; all members of this group have either a very short tail or no tail at all. Another distinguishing trait is their use of tool use; both chimpanzees and bonobos have been observed using tools in the wild as well as in captivity. This behavior is thought to be unique among animals and may be related to their intelligence as well as their opposable thumbs which allow them to grip objects firmly. Finally, pansids tend to live in groups that contain more females than males whereas most other cercopithecine species have equal numbers or more males than females within groups.