Why Apes Are Not as Large as Humans

The question of why apes, particularly gorillas, do not match the size of humans is an interesting one that delves deep into the realms of biological evolution and adaptation. Long before humans walked the earth, hominoids, including apes, inhabited coastal forests and other environments, with their bodies shaped by their unique evolutionary paths.

Historical Perspective and Evolutionary Trajectories

Starting from our last common ancestor with apes, which lived around 7 to 8 million years ago, Homo and Pan (gorillas) have taken distinctly different evolutionary paths. According to my book, “De evolutie van de mens - waarom wij rechtop lopen en kunnen spreken” by Acad. Uitg. Eburon, Utrecht NL, apes evolved to become aquarboreal, meaning they were adapted to living in coastal forests near water bodies. This environment provided them with the ideal conditions to become fully upright, both for wading bipedally and climbing overhead.

However, after the split in the late Miocene period, the environment and habitat changes led to different evolutionary adaptations. Gorillas adapted to life in swamp forests, adopting a knuckle-walking posture, while humans moved towards a more terrestrial and omnivorous lifestyle in southern Asia, such as in areas like Java. The process of human evolution has been unique, with a strong emphasis on terrestrial bipedalism, which has resulted in our distinct physical characteristics.

The Physiology and Anatomy of Apes

It is a common misconception that all apes are small and cute. In reality, apes are significantly larger than humans, especially gorillas, which can grow to heights around 5′5″ and weigh up to 396 lbs. Gorillas are also feats of strength, capable of lifting 10 times their own weight, an impressive feat in the animal kingdom.

Comparing human and gorilla anatomy, several striking differences are evident. For instance:

Bicep size: Gorilla biceps are much larger than those of humans, adapted for strength and the demands of a predominantly arm-based locomotion and climbing lifestyle. Chest size: Gorillas also have wider chests, designed for better oxygenation and the support of their larger bodies. Hand size: Gorilla hands are considerably longer and stronger, ideal for gripping and swinging through trees. Head size: Gorillas have larger heads, which house strong jaw muscles and a larger nasal cavity for better breathing and vocalization.

Not all apes share the same body structure. The Orangutan, while similar in size to a gorilla, has evolved differently. These apes can stand upright for short periods but are not built for this posture. Their arms are designed to be longer and more flexible, making them incredibly adept at climbing but not as effective for bipedal activities.

Conclusion

The variations in size and anatomy between humans and apes, such as gorillas and orangutans, are the result of millions of years of adaptation to specific environments and lifestyles. While gorillas are undoubtedly among the largest and strongest of apes, their bodies have been shaped by evolutionary pressures that differ significantly from those experienced by humans. Understanding these differences provides valuable insights into the unique characteristics that have defined our own species over the course of our evolutionary journey.

References

For more information, you can refer to the following sources:

gondwanatalks verhaegen bonne WHATtalk verhaegen De evolutie van de mens - waarom wij rechtop lopen en kunnen spreken, Acad. Uitg. Eburon, Utrecht NL, 2022