Question

Which one of the following belongs to New World monkey?

• A. Baboons
• B. Macaques
• C. Spider monkeys
• D. Langurs

Hint:

{Exam Trick:}

• {Prehensile tail (grasping tail)} → New World monkeys
• {Non-prehensile tail} → Old World monkeys

If a monkey can hang or grasp branches with its tail like an extra hand, it is most likely a {New World monkey}.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
Monkeys are broadly classified into two major groups based on their geographical distribution and morphological characteristics. These groups are:

• New World monkeys (Platyrrhini)
• Old World monkeys (Catarrhini)

This classification mainly depends on differences in nose structure, tail function, and habitat distribution.

• New World monkeys are found in Central and South America.
• Old World monkeys are found in Africa and Asia.

Step 1: Characteristics of New World monkeys.
New World monkeys possess the following features:

• Broad and flat nose
• Nostrils directed sideways
• Usually possess prehensile tails that can grasp branches
• Mostly arboreal (tree-dwelling)

Examples include:

• Spider monkey
• Howler monkey
• Marmoset

Step 2: Characteristics of Old World monkeys.
Old World monkeys differ in several anatomical features:

• Narrow nose
• Nostrils directed downward
• Tails are non-prehensile and mainly used for balance
• Found in Africa and Asia

Examples include:

• Baboon
• Macaque
• Langur

Step 3: Identifying the correct classification.
The Spider monkey is native to Central and South America and possesses a prehensile tail used for grasping branches while moving through trees. These characteristics clearly place it under the group: \[ New World monkeys (Platyrrhini) \] Final Answer: \(\boxed{\text{Spider monkey is a New World monkey}}\)