Locomotion:
* Branch swinging: Prehensile tails act as a fifth limb, providing balance and support while swinging through the trees. They can grab branches, helping the monkey to maneuver with agility.
* Climbing: The tail can wrap around branches, acting as an anchor, allowing the monkey to climb vertically or hang upside down.
* Jumping: Prehensile tails can be used to aid in jumping between branches, providing stability and direction.
Feeding:
* Reaching for food: The tail can extend the monkey's reach, allowing them to grab fruit or leaves that are otherwise out of reach.
* Holding food: Some species can use their tail to hold onto food while they eat.
Social interaction:
* Communication: Prehensile tails can be used for communication, often being held high in the air as a sign of excitement or dominance.
* Comforting: Monkeys can use their tails to comfort and groom each other.
Other uses:
* Shelter: Some species use their prehensile tails to help build nests.
* Defense: The tail can be used to help ward off predators, by lashing out or grabbing onto a branch for protection.
Specific examples:
* Spider monkeys: These monkeys are particularly renowned for their prehensile tails, which they use extensively for swinging, climbing, and even holding onto food.
* Howler monkeys: They use their prehensile tails for support while feeding and for maintaining their balance while moving through the canopy.
Note: While prehensile tails are common among New World monkeys, they are not present in all primates. Old World monkeys, apes, and humans lack this adaptation.