Answer :
The term 'anthropoid' refers specifically to a group of primates that includes monkeys, apes, and humans. In evolutionary biology, anthropoids are part of the suborder Haplorhini, which also includes tarsiers, but when we use the term 'anthropoid', we are generally referring to the higher primates that are more closely related to humans in terms of anatomical and behavioral features.
Here are some details on each group included under the term 'anthropoid':
Monkeys: This group includes both Old World monkeys (found in Africa and Asia) and New World monkeys (found in Central and South America). They are characterized by their diverse habitats and lifestyles. Old World monkeys often have narrow noses and non-prehensile tails, while New World monkeys typically have flat noses and often prehensile tails to help them in arboreal settings.
Apes: Apes are tailless primates found in Africa and Asia. They include lesser apes like gibbons and the great apes, which comprise orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and humans. Apes generally have larger brains relative to body size and exhibit high levels of social complexity, especially the great apes.
Humans: Humans are classified as hominids and belong to the family Hominidae. They are distinguished by their bipedal posture, larger brain size, and complex cultural and linguistic capabilities.
Understanding the term anthropoid helps in studying evolutionary biology and primate diversity. In summary, the correct answer is option 2: Monkeys, apes, and humans.
