Atelidae (Sub-family of Primates)

Atelidae, from Greek ἀτελής (atelḗs, “incomplete, imperfect”), from ἀ- (a-, “without”) and τέλος (télos, “end”), in reference to the reduced or non-existent thumbs in these species.

Common names of members

Howler monkeys, spider monkeys, wooly monkeys, and wooly spider monkeys.

Distribution

Throughout the forested regions of Central and South America, from Mexico to northern Argentina.

Size

With a head-body length of 34 to 72 cm, they are modest to moderate in size.

Morphology

Their long, prehensile tails feature a tactile patch on the underside of the distal portion that is extremely sensitive and nearly hairless. When navigating the trees where they establish their homes, the tail is commonly utilized as the "fifth limb." In order to climb, they also have nails on their fingers and toes. The majority of species have fur that is primarily dark brown, gray, or black, frequently with lighter patterns.

Habitat & Ecology

They mostly live in thick rainforests, while some species can also be found in wooded savannah or drier woods.

Diet

Their primary diet consists of fruit and leaves, while some small insects may also be consumed by the smaller species.

Reproduction

Depending on the species, they can dwell in social groups with up to 25 adults and are usually polygamous. In smaller groups, one male controls a 'harem' of females; in bigger groups, there is a distinct hierarchy of dominance among the males. A single infant (or, very rarely, twins) is born to a female after 180 to 225 days of gestation. In the majority of species, there is little to no seasonal peak in the number of births, and individuals typically give birth every one to three years.