Monkeys exhibit a remarkable range of sizes, from the diminutive pygmy marmoset to much larger species. This vast spectrum often sparks curiosity about which monkey species holds the title for the largest.
The Mandrill: Earth’s Largest Monkey
The Mandrill (Mandrillus sphinx) is the largest monkey species on Earth, recognized for its substantial size and robust build. Adult male mandrills are significantly larger than females, showcasing pronounced sexual dimorphism. Males typically measure 70 to 95 centimeters (28 to 37 inches) in head and body length, with some individuals reaching up to 110 centimeters. Their weight ranges from 19 to 30 kilograms (42 to 66 pounds), though exceptional males have been recorded weighing over 50 kilograms (110 pounds), up to 54 kilograms (119 pounds).
Female mandrills are considerably smaller, generally about half the size of males. Their head and body length typically falls between 55 and 70 centimeters (22 to 28 inches). Females usually weigh 10 to 15 kilograms (22 to 33 pounds). Both sexes possess a short, stubby tail, measuring around 7 to 10 centimeters (2.8 to 3.9 inches) in length.
Distinctive Features of the Mandrill
Beyond its impressive size, the mandrill possesses a striking appearance with vibrant coloration and distinctive physical traits. The face of a male mandrill displays bright blue and red markings, with a red stripe down the middle and blue, ridged skin on either side. These colors are more intense in dominant males, serving as a visual signal of their status.
The mandrill’s rump also exhibits a remarkable palette of blue, red, orange, and purple hues. This colorful posterior can intensify in brightness when excited or as a form of social communication. The mandrill’s body is stocky and muscular, complemented by strong limbs and a large head with a prominent muzzle. Males are characterized by long canine teeth, measuring up to 4.5 centimeters (1.8 inches), and a crest of long hairs on their head and neck.
These monkeys primarily inhabit tropical rainforests and gallery forests of west-central Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Congo. They spend most of their day foraging on the forest floor, though they climb trees to sleep at night.
Mandrills live in large, complex social groups called “hordes” or “supergroups,” which can number in the hundreds. Females form the stable core of these groups, while adult males typically lead more solitary lives outside the breeding season, rejoining the larger groups for reproduction.
Other Notable Large Monkey Species
While the mandrill holds the record as the world’s largest monkey, other species are also notable for their considerable size. Several baboon species are often compared to mandrills due to their robust builds.
The Chacma Baboon (Papio ursinus) is recognized as the largest among baboons. Male Chacma baboons can weigh 21 to 45 kilograms (46 to 99 pounds), averaging 31.8 kilograms (70 pounds), and reach a body length of 115 centimeters (45 inches). The Olive Baboon (Papio anubis) is another large species, with males typically weighing 30 to 40 kilograms (around 55 pounds). Gelada baboons (Theropithecus gelada) are also sizable, with males averaging 18.5 kilograms (41 pounds) and notable for their unique red chest patch. The mandrill consistently surpasses these species in maximum weight.