Comparative Anatomy of Primates

Primate comparative anatomy is a field of research that has profoundly interested scientists since several centuries ago, particularly due to its implications to the knowledge of the origin, biology, and/or evolution of our own species, Homo sapiens. In this chapter we provide a short summary of the comparative anatomy of humans and other primates that is based on a collaborative work of three experts in the field. A different author has written each of the sections. The first section focuses on osteology (bones and cartilages), the second on myology (muscles and tendons), and the third on external and internal organs. Within each section the information will be presented within an evolutionary context and often includes brief historical and/or functional considerations.