Símios

Símios is a term derived from the Portuguese word for monkeys. In a biological context, it refers to certain primate species, typically those belonging to the infraorder Simiiformes. This group includes monkeys, apes, and humans, distinguishing them from prosimians like lemurs and lorises. Simians are characterized by their forward-facing eyes, which provide binocular vision, and generally more complex social behaviors compared to prosimians.

Within the infraorder Simiiformes, there are two major divisions: Platyrrhini, the New World monkeys, found in Central and South America, and Catarrhini, the Old World monkeys and apes, found in Africa and Asia. New World monkeys are characterized by their broad, flat noses with outward-facing nostrils and often prehensile tails. Old World monkeys and apes, on the other hand, have narrower noses with downward-facing nostrils and typically lack prehensile tails, although some ape species have grasping hands and feet.

The term "símios" is most commonly used in Portuguese to refer to monkeys in general, excluding apes and humans, although scientifically it encompasses them. This usage can sometimes lead to confusion when discussing primate classification. The study of símios, like all primates, falls under the field of primatology, which investigates their anatomy, behavior, ecology, and evolution. Their intelligence, adaptability, and social structures have made them subjects of significant scientific interest.