atelid

An atelid is a member of the primate family Atelidae, a group of New World monkeys native to tropical forests of Central and South America. The living atelids are divided into four genera: Alouatta (howler monkeys), Ateles (spider monkeys), Lagothrix (woolly monkeys), and Brachyteles (muriquis).

Atelids are distinguished by a highly prehensile tail that often functions as a fifth limb for grasping branches, facilitating suspensory locomotion in the trees. They generally have long limbs, flexible shoulder joints, and an adaptable body plan suited to an arboreal lifestyle. Their dentition follows the typical New World monkey formula of 2-1-3-3.

Geographic distribution varies by genus; howlers extend from Mexico to Argentina, while spider monkeys, woolly monkeys, and muriquis inhabit forests from Central America through the Amazon basin and the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. Muriquis are primarily found in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.

Ecology and behavior: atelids are primarily arboreal and diurnal. Diets are largely fruit-based but include leaves, seeds, flowers, and occasional invertebrates. Howlers tend to be more folivorous, and spider monkeys are especially frugivorous, with other genera showing similar fruit-focused tendencies depending on season. Social groups vary by species, with adults and offspring forming stable or semi-stable associations and diverse vocal communications.

Conservation: many atelid species face threats from habitat loss, fragmentation, and hunting. Several species are listed as vulnerable or endangered by the IUCN. Conservation efforts emphasize habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and the maintenance of forest corridors to support population viability.