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Primate Taxonomy

Page 17

17) The large apes, including this gorilla, are knuckle-walkers. Notice the position of the fingers in this quadrupedal or four limbed posture. The apes and many other primates are able to walk on two legs for short distances. Humans always walk bipedally, on two legs . A large male lowland gorilla walking on the ground.
Notes: A large male lowland gorilla walking on the ground.
Scientific name: Gorilla gorilla gorilla
Question: Can you put your hands in the same position as this gorilla? What part of the hand do you think is supporting his weight?
The gorilla walks on well padded middle sections of the fingers.
Photo © by: Nancy Staley

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