Difference Between
versus

Old World Monkeys vs. New World Monkeys: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Old World Monkeys, native to Africa and Asia, have non-prehensile tails and narrower nasal separation, while New World Monkeys, from the Americas, often have prehensile tails and wider nostrils.
Old World Monkeys vs. New World Monkeys

Key Differences

Old World Monkeys, found in Africa and Asia, are part of the Cercopithecoidea family. They are generally larger, have more robust bodies, and their nostrils are close together and point downward. New World Monkeys, belonging to the Platyrrhini family, are native to South and Central America. They are typically smaller, with flatter faces, and their nostrils are set further apart and often point sideways.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Regarding tail differences, Old World Monkeys usually have non-prehensile tails, which means they cannot use them for grasping. In contrast, many New World Monkeys have prehensile tails, a unique adaptation that allows them to grasp and hang from branches, aiding in their arboreal lifestyle.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Old World Monkeys often have sitting pads on their rumps, which New World Monkeys lack. This anatomical feature helps Old World Monkeys sit comfortably on branches or rocky outcrops. New World Monkeys, meanwhile, display a greater variety of tail types and often use them as an extra limb.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
In terms of dental structure, Old World Monkeys typically have bilophodont molars, characterized by two ridges, which is not a feature in New World Monkeys. The dental formula also differs between the two groups, reflecting their varied diets and evolutionary paths.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
Social structure and behavior also vary between Old World and New World Monkeys. Old World species often form large, hierarchical groups, while New World species exhibit more diverse social structures, including smaller, more egalitarian groups.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

Geographical Origin

Africa and Asia
South and Central America
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Tail Type

Non-prehensile tails
Often have prehensile tails
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Nostril Structure

Narrowly spaced, downward-pointing
Widely spaced, often sideways-pointing
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Dental Structure

Bilophodont molars, specific dental formula
Different dental formula, varied molars
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Social Structure

Often larger, hierarchical groups
More diverse, smaller groups
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Old World Monkeys and New World Monkeys Definitions

Old World Monkeys

Old World Monkeys have a more terrestrial lifestyle compared to their New World counterparts.
The African colobus, an Old World Monkey, spends considerable time on the ground.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

New World Monkeys

New World Monkeys are arboreal primates from the Americas with prehensile tails.
The spider monkey, a New World Monkey, uses its prehensile tail to swing between trees.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Old World Monkeys

These monkeys often form large, complex social groups.
The gelada, an Old World Monkey, lives in large groups with intricate social dynamics.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

New World Monkeys

They exhibit diverse social structures, often in smaller, egalitarian groups.
Squirrel monkeys, New World Monkeys, form close-knit, cooperative groups.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Old World Monkeys

Old World Monkeys are primates from Africa and Asia with downward-pointing nostrils.
The baboon, an Old World Monkey, is known for its strong social structure.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

New World Monkeys

These monkeys have a more varied dental formula and lack bilophodont molars.
New World Monkeys like the howler monkey have dental structures adapted to their diverse diets.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Old World Monkeys

Old World Monkeys possess non-prehensile tails and bilophodont molar teeth.
The macaque, a typical Old World Monkey, uses its non-prehensile tail for balance.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

New World Monkeys

New World Monkeys lack sitting pads and have varied tail types.
Unlike Old World Monkeys, the capuchin, a New World Monkey, lacks sitting pads.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Old World Monkeys

This group is characterized by their sitting pads and larger body size.
Old World Monkeys like the mandrill have distinct sitting pads for resting on branches.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

New World Monkeys

They are characterized by wide, sideways-pointing nostrils and smaller sizes.
The tiny tamarin, a New World Monkey, has distinct wide-set nostrils.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

What is a key feature of New World Monkeys?

Many have prehensile tails.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Are Old World Monkeys typically larger than New World Monkeys?

Yes, they are generally larger.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Do Old World Monkeys have prehensile tails?

No, they have non-prehensile tails.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What kind of molars do Old World Monkeys have?

Bilophodont molars.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Where are Old World Monkeys found?

In Africa and Asia.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Are New World Monkeys more arboreal?

Yes, they are typically more tree-dwelling.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Do Old World Monkeys have sitting pads?

Yes, they often have sitting pads.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What type of social structure do New World Monkeys usually have?

Diverse, often smaller and more egalitarian groups.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Can New World Monkeys use their tails for grasping?

Many can, thanks to their prehensile tails.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Are there dietary differences between the two groups?

Yes, their diets vary due to different dental structures and habitats.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What kind of nostrils do New World Monkeys have?

Wide-set and often sideways-pointing.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Are Old World Monkeys more terrestrial?

Some species are more terrestrial compared to the mostly arboreal New World Monkeys.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Are Old World Monkeys more diverse in tail types?

No, New World Monkeys exhibit greater variety in tail types.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Do Old World Monkeys have wider nasal separation than New World Monkeys?

No, their nostrils are closer together and point downward.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Do New World Monkeys have bilophodont molars?

No, they lack bilophodont molars.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What is a unique adaptation of many New World Monkeys?

The ability to use their tails as an extra limb.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Do Old World Monkeys form large social groups?

Yes, they often form large, complex groups.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

What is the dental formula difference between the two?

Old World Monkeys have a specific dental formula, while New World Monkeys have a more varied one.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Do Old World Monkeys have flatter faces than New World Monkeys?

No, it's the other way around.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Do New World Monkeys form hierarchical groups like some Old World Monkeys?

Their social structures are less hierarchical and more varied.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 09, 2023

Share this page

Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

Smart TV vs. Android TVSmart TV vs. Android TV
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Smart TV is an internet-connected television with a variety of apps, while an Android TV is specifically a Smart TV powered by Google's Android TV operating system.
Special Education vs. Inclusive EducationSpecial Education vs. Inclusive Education
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 17, 2024
Special Education is tailored instruction for students with disabilities, while Inclusive Education integrates all students, including those with disabilities, into general education settings.
Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 8, 2024
The Seagate Exos X16 offers up to 16TB storage with a focus on high-capacity data centers, while the Exos X18 upgrades to 18TB, enhancing performance and capacity for enterprise demands.
C3 Plants vs. C4 PlantsC3 Plants vs. C4 Plants
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
C3 plants use a direct carbon fixation process, common in cooler climates, while C4 plants have a specialized mechanism, efficient in high light and temperature.
Social Change vs. Cultural ChangeSocial Change vs. Cultural Change
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Social change refers to shifts in societal structures and institutions, impacting behaviors and relationships among people. Cultural change pertains to alterations in a group's shared beliefs, values, and customs, influencing their way of life.
Compression Wood vs. Tension WoodCompression Wood vs. Tension Wood
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Compression Wood is a denser, abnormal growth in softwood trees under mechanical stress, whereas Tension Wood is a less dense, fibrous growth in hardwoods under similar stress.
Term vs. SemesterTerm vs. Semester
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Term is a general period for any division of the academic year, while Semester specifically refers to half of an academic year.
Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 1, 2024
Gorilla Glass 3 offers improved scratch resistance and durability compared to its predecessors, while Gorilla Glass 5 focuses on enhanced drop protection and toughness.
Gavage vs. LavageGavage vs. Lavage
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Gavage is the process of feeding a person or animal by inserting a tube into the stomach, while lavage is the washing out of a body cavity, such as the stomach, typically for medical treatment.
Nanomaterials vs. NanoparticlesNanomaterials vs. Nanoparticles
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Nanomaterials are diverse materials with components smaller than 100nm, whereas nanoparticles are specific, ultrafine particles within this size range.
Travel Agent vs. Tour OperatorTravel Agent vs. Tour Operator
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A travel agent is a professional who arranges travel plans for individuals, while a tour operator designs and manages complete travel packages.
Plant Cell vs. Animal CellPlant Cell vs. Animal Cell
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts for photosynthesis, while animal cells lack these but have centrioles.
Hard Copy vs. Soft CopyHard Copy vs. Soft Copy
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Hard Copy is a physical version of a document or file, usually on paper, while a Soft Copy is a digital version of the document, stored electronically.
Sausage vs. SmokieSausage vs. Smokie
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A sausage is a type of meat product usually made from ground meat, often pork, beef, or poultry, while a smokie is a specific type of smoked sausage.
Japanese Eyes vs. Chinese EyesJapanese Eyes vs. Chinese Eyes
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Japanese Eyes and Chinese Eyes refer to linguistic structures in Japanese and Chinese respectively, each reflecting unique aspects of grammar and syntax.
Batch Fermentation vs. Continuous FermentationBatch Fermentation vs. Continuous Fermentation
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 10, 2024
Batch Fermentation is a finite process where nutrients are added at the start and products are harvested at the end, whereas Continuous Fermentation involves a steady input of nutrients and continuous product harvest.
2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
2 Pole Motors have one pair of magnetic poles and run at higher speeds, while 4 Pole Motors have two pairs of poles and operate at lower speeds, offering higher torque.
Absolute Privilege vs. Qualified PrivilegeAbsolute Privilege vs. Qualified Privilege
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 26, 2023
Absolute privilege is a complete defense against defamation claims, often used in legal or parliamentary contexts, while qualified privilege offers conditional protection, requiring the absence of malice.
Analog Computer vs. Digital ComputerAnalog Computer vs. Digital Computer
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
An Analog Computer processes continuous data, whereas a Digital Computer processes data in discrete numerical form.
White Collar Crime vs. Blue Collar CrimeWhite Collar Crime vs. Blue Collar Crime
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
White Collar Crime involves non-violent, financially motivated offenses often committed by professionals, while Blue Collar Crime refers to physical or violent crimes often by manual laborers.
Fast Food vs. Traditional FoodFast Food vs. Traditional Food
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Fast Food is quick, convenient, and often pre-prepared, while Traditional Food emphasizes cultural recipes, longer preparation times, and home cooking.
Handsome vs. SmartHandsome vs. Smart
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Handsome describes physical attractiveness, focusing on looks, while smart denotes intelligence or cleverness, related to mental capabilities.
Consecutive vs. SubsequentConsecutive vs. Subsequent
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Consecutive refers to events or things following one after another in uninterrupted sequence, whereas subsequent denotes following in time or order, but not necessarily immediately afterward.
Goth vs. AltGoth vs. Alt
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 5, 2024
Goth is a dark, often Victorian-influenced subculture and style, while Alt (alternative) is a broader term encompassing non-mainstream styles and attitudes.

Featured Comparisons

New Comparisons