Crab Eating Monkey refers to a species of primate scientifically known as Macaca fascicularis, commonly known as the long-tailed macaque or cynomolgus monkey. It belongs to the family Cercopithecidae and is native to Southeast Asia.
The name "Crab Eating Monkey" stems from its diverse diet, which includes a significant amount of crabs and other small aquatic creatures such as shellfish and mollusks. However, it is important to note that its diet is not exclusively limited to crabs and hence the term "crab eating" is somewhat misleading.
These monkeys have long, slender tails which help them with balance while jumping and climbing trees. Their body fur is typically grayish-brown, exhibiting various shades. Adult males weigh around 5-10 kilograms, while females are usually lighter.
Crab Eating Monkeys are highly adaptable and are capable of inhabiting various types of environments such as mangroves, rainforests, and coastal areas. They are known for their semi-terrestrial lifestyle, frequently wandering around both land and trees.
These monkeys are highly social animals, living in groups called troops, typically consisting of several females, males, and infants. Their complex social structure is marked by hierarchies and intricate relationships. They employ vocalizations, facial expressions, and body movements to communicate with their troop members.
Due to their intelligence and adaptability, Crab Eating Monkeys have been extensively used in scientific research studies, particularly in biomedical and behavioral research, contributing significantly to our understanding of certain diseases and human behavior.
