A monkey is a primate, belonging to the suborder Haplorhini. They are generally distinguished from apes by having tails (though some monkeys lack tails) and being smaller in size. Monkeys are further divided into two main groups: New World monkeys (platyrrhines) found in the Americas, and Old World monkeys (catarrhines) found in Africa and Asia. This distinction reflects their evolutionary divergence and geographical distribution. Monkeys are intelligent, social animals that have adapted to a wide range of environments.

The 'workings' of a monkey encompass their biological functions, social interactions, and ecological roles. Biologically, monkeys possess specialized adaptations for arboreal life, such as prehensile tails (in New World monkeys) and grasping hands and feet. Their digestive systems are adapted to their specific diets, which can range from fruits and leaves to insects and small animals. Socially, monkeys live in complex groups with established hierarchies and communication systems. They use vocalizations, facial expressions, and body language to interact with each other. Ecologically, monkeys contribute to seed dispersal, pollination, and the regulation of insect populations.

Key features of monkeys include their opposable thumbs, which allow for precise gripping and manipulation of objects. Their binocular vision provides depth perception, crucial for navigating arboreal environments. Many monkey species exhibit complex social behaviors, including grooming, cooperative hunting, and parental care. Their intelligence is also a notable feature, with some species demonstrating problem-solving abilities and tool use. The presence or absence of a tail, and the structure of their noses (platyrrhine vs. catarrhine), are also defining characteristics.

While monkeys are not directly used in many 'applications' in the same way as technology, their study has significant real-world implications. Monkeys are used in biomedical research to study diseases and develop treatments for human illnesses. Their behavior and social structures provide insights into human evolution and social dynamics. Conservation efforts focused on monkeys help protect biodiversity and maintain healthy ecosystems. Ecotourism centered around monkey populations can also contribute to local economies.

The 'benefits' of monkeys are primarily ecological and scientific. They play a vital role in seed dispersal, helping to maintain forest ecosystems. Their presence can indicate the health of an environment. From a scientific perspective, studying monkeys provides valuable insights into primate evolution, behavior, and cognition. They serve as models for understanding human health and disease, contributing to medical advancements.

Monkeys face numerous challenges, including habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion. They are also threatened by hunting for bushmeat and the pet trade. Human-wildlife conflict can arise when monkeys raid crops or come into contact with humans in urban areas. From a research perspective, ethical considerations limit the types of studies that can be conducted on monkeys.

Examples of monkeys in action include capuchin monkeys using tools to crack nuts, macaques washing sweet potatoes before eating them, and howler monkeys communicating through loud vocalizations to establish territory. Research examples include studies on rhesus monkeys to understand the Rh factor in blood and studies on primate social behavior to understand human social dynamics.

The future of monkeys depends on conservation efforts to protect their habitats and reduce human-wildlife conflict. Advances in genetic research may provide insights into their evolutionary history and genetic diversity. Increased awareness of the importance of monkey conservation can lead to greater public support for protecting these animals and their ecosystems. Continued research will likely focus on understanding their cognitive abilities and social complexities.

Related concepts to monkeys include primates, apes, evolution, ecology, conservation, behavior, cognition, and zoology. Understanding these related concepts provides a broader context for understanding the role of monkeys in the natural world and their relationship to other species, including humans.