The Skeletal System of the Ape

The skeletal system of apes is often compared to that of humans, as there are many similarities between to the two structures. However, different apes have different skeletal systems. For example, the skeletal system of a gorilla varies greatly from the skeletal system of an orangutan.

  1. Gorilla

    • The skeletal system of a gorilla is made up of seven main parts. These parts consist of the cranium, or gorilla's head, the rib cage area, the vertebrae, back and front legs, as well as front and back feet. This skeletal system allows the ape to walk on all fours, however, the gorilla is capable of standing on its own two feet. The gorilla's skeletal system has evolved over the years to accommodate its terrestrial lifestyle, as opposed to other apes' arboreal lifestyle.

    Chimpanzee

    • The skeletal system of the chimpanzee often is considered one of the closest in resemblance to the human skeletal system. It is often recognized by the prognathic, or protruding, face. The skeleton has pronounced supraorbital crests. The skeletal system of the chimpanzee allows the ape to manufacture and use tools, which is unique because this was once thought to be something only humans could do.

    Orangutan

    • The skeletal system of the orangutan is most recognized by the long upper limps, which allow the orangutan to move along the tree lines quickly and swiftly. However, what is unique about the orangutan's skeletal system is that while on the ground, orangutan's walk on all four limbs. Orangutan skeleton's also have large foreheads and protruding snouts. The arm span of an orangutan can reach up to more than 7 feet.

    Baboon

    • The skeletal system of the baboon is more unique than the systems of other ape species. This system is designed for a smaller ape, and baboons are sexually dimorphous, meaning that a female baboon's skeletal system is nearly half the size of a male baboon's skeletal system. The baboon also has a tail included in the skeletal system. This tiny ape is designed to maneuver on all four limbs, and has a face that resembles more of a dog's than a human's.