Definition

Proper noun * Hylobatidae: A taxonomic family within the order Primates, comprising the lesser apes, which include gibbons and siamangs. In some biological classifications, this family is considered a subfamily (Hylobatinae) of the family Pongidae.

Usage Notes

• The term Hylobatidae is used primarily in scientific and zoological contexts for formal classification.
• It specifically refers to a distinct family of primates, separating the smaller, arboreal "lesser apes" (gibbons and siamangs) from the "great apes" (such as orangutans, gorillas, and chimpanzees).

Examples

• The agile brachiators of the family Hylobatidae are found in the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia.
• A key anatomical feature distinguishing Hylobatidae from other apes is the presence of ischial callosities.
• The study focused on the vocal communication systems within Hylobatidae.

Advanced Usage

• Phylogenetic context: In modern cladistics, Hylobatidae is recognized as the sister group to the family Hominidae (which includes great apes and humans), forming the superfamily Hominoidea.
• Conservation status: Many species within Hylobatidae are listed as endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Variants and Related Words

• hylobatid (noun/adjective): A member of the family Hylobatidae; of or relating to this family.
  • The hylobatid swung gracefully through the canopy.
• Hylobatinae (noun): The subfamily name sometimes used when Hylobatidae is classified under Pongidae.

Synonyms

• lesser apes
• gibbons (common name for the group, though technically referring to a specific genus within the family)

Different Meanings

This word has a single, specific taxonomic meaning in biological classification. It does not have other general definitions.

Noun

1. used in some classifications for the lesser apes (gibbons and siamangs); sometimes considered a subfamily of Pongidae