Human beings are one of the most complex and fascinating creatures on earth. Our unique abilities to think, feel, communicate, create art, music, and technology have set us apart from other animals.
Among primates, humans share a common ancestor with great apes such as chimpanzees and gorillas but differ significantly in terms of physical characteristics and cognitive abilities. Despite sharing 98% of our DNA with chimpanzees and bonobos, human beings display remarkable differences that make them stand out among all living organisms.
This article aims to explore why humans are unique compared to great apes by examining several factors such as brain size, language ability, tool-making skills, social intelligence, and emotion regulation. Through this analysis, we hope to understand what makes us human and how these distinct traits evolved over time.
The Evolutionary Journey Of Humans And Great Apes
The evolutionary journey of humans and great apes is a fascinating topic in the field of anthropology. Humans share approximately 98% of their DNA with the great ape, making them our closest living relatives. However, when comparing physical characteristics between humans and great apes, it becomes clear that there are significant differences.
The human evolutionary timeline began around six million years ago when the first hominids appeared in Africa. These early hominids were bipedal primates that eventually evolved into Homo erectus, which was the first species to migrate out of Africa around two million years ago. This migration led to further evolution and diversification into different Homo species such as Neanderthals and Homo sapiens.
Great Ape DNA has been studied extensively to determine how they differ from humans genetically. The analysis revealed that although we share most of our genetic makeup with great apes, there are key differences in certain genes that have allowed us to develop unique traits such as language skills, larger brain size, and complex social structures.
Moving forward, we will explore another aspect where humans stand apart from their primate cousins: brain size and complexity. As we delve deeper into this critical difference, we can see how it played an essential role in shaping human evolution over time.
Brain Size And Complexity
The evolution of the human brain is a fascinating subject that has intrigued scientists for generations. The size and complexity of the human brain are unparalleled in the animal kingdom, making us unique compared to our great ape cousins. It is these neurological differences that underpin our advanced cognitive abilities.
The human brain weighs about three pounds on average, which accounts for only 2% of our body weight. However, it uses up approximately 20% of our daily caloric intake, highlighting its high energy requirements.
The cerebral cortex is the outermost layer of the brain responsible for higher-level thinking processes such as perception, language, and consciousness. This region constitutes two-thirds of total brain mass in humans but only one-third in chimpanzees.
One reason why humans have larger brains than apes is due to an increase in neural connections between neurons known as synapses. Humans have nearly double the number of synapses per neuron when compared with chimpanzees or gorillas. Moreover, we possess additional regions within our cerebral cortex that are not present in other primates’ brains; these areas might be involved in social cognition and decision-making processes.
Some examples of how this increased cortical capacity translates into enhanced cognitive abilities include:
- Our ability to plan ahead and make decisions based on future outcomes
- Improved working memory capacity
- Complex social interactions requiring empathy
In summary, humans’ unique neuroanatomy provides us with advanced cognitive abilities that distinguish us from other animals, especially great apes who share over 90% genetic similarity with us.
Understanding these evolutionary changes enables researchers to investigate what sets apart human intelligence from any other species further.
This leads us to question whether there are specific features that allowed humans to develop language while no other species could do so yet? In subsequent sections, we will explore some plausible explanations for this intriguing phenomenon without losing sight of their scientific basis.
Language Ability
The human brain size and complexity have been shown to be significantly larger than those of great apes. However, brain size does not necessarily equate to intelligence or uniqueness. One significant factor that sets humans apart from other primates is our ability to use language. The relationship between culture and language has contributed greatly to the evolution of human societies.
Language ability is a hallmark feature unique to humans, as it allows us to communicate complex thoughts and ideas with one another through spoken and written words. This skill has been a driving force behind the development of human civilization over the centuries. While some animals can communicate in rudimentary ways, no other animal possesses the level of syntax and grammar found in human languages.
The impact of technology on language has been substantial, allowing for faster communication across vast distances and creating new opportunities for linguistic expression. Text messaging, social media platforms, video chats, and online forums have revolutionized how we interact with each other using language. Technology has also enabled greater access to learning new languages through online courses and translation tools.
As humans continue to evolve alongside their technological advancements, it remains unclear what role language will play in shaping our future society. What is certain though is that the importance of being able to communicate effectively cannot be overstated; after all, language is what connects us all together as members of this species we call Homo sapiens. In the next section about syntax and grammar, we will explore further how these elements contribute to making human language so unique compared to other forms of communication among living organisms.
Syntax And Grammar
The evolution of language in humans has been attributed to many factors, one of which is syntax and grammar. This linguistic evolution occurred alongside the cognitive development that allowed for more complex thought processes.
Syntax refers to the rules governing how words are put together to form sentences, while grammar involves the structure of those sentences. As humans evolved, so did their ability to manipulate language through syntax and grammar. The development of these skills enabled humans to express themselves with greater precision and nuance than any other species on earth.
It was this unique combination of advanced cognition and sophisticated communication abilities that set humans apart from great apes. Linguistic evolution did not occur overnight; it was a gradual process that took thousands of years. As our ancestors developed increasingly complex tools and technologies, they also refined their methods of communication.
Over time, these refinements led to the creation of more structured languages with intricate grammatical systems. The study of syntax and grammar remains an important field within linguistics today. Researchers continue to explore how different languages work, as well as how they have changed over time.
By understanding the ways in which human language has evolved, we can gain insights into everything from cultural history to cognitive development.
Moving forward towards tool-making skills:
While syntax and grammar were essential components in shaping human uniqueness compared to great apes, tool-making skills represent another critical aspect where humans excel beyond all others among primates.
Tool-Making Skills
In the previous section, we explored how syntax and grammar play a crucial role in distinguishing humans from other animals. However, there is another aspect that sets us apart – our tool-making skills.
While chimpanzees have been observed using primitive tools like twigs to extract termites, human beings have advanced significantly in terms of technology and tool development.
Primitive tool making has been an essential part of human evolution for millions of years. The earliest known tools used by Homo habilis were made approximately 2.6 million years ago by chipping stones into sharp edges for cutting meat or scraping hides. Over time, as humans evolved and migrated across different continents, they developed more sophisticated techniques for creating better tools suited for their needs.
One significant factor that distinguishes modern tool making techniques from older ones is the use of specialized machinery and materials. For instance, modern-day manufacturing involves computer-aided design software and robots capable of precise measurements to produce complex products on a large scale. From simple hand-held devices like knives to heavy machines like cranes, technological advancements have revolutionized every industry.
The development of technology has led to rapid progress in society’s various fields with far-reaching benefits for humanity’s overall well-being. Technological advancements facilitated improvements in medical treatments, transportation systems, communication networks, energy production methods and many other areas previously unimagined by our ancestors.
Thus it can be concluded that while primates also exhibit some form of rudimentary tool-making abilities; however, humans’ ability to develop increasingly complex technologies over generations sets us apart uniquely. As we continue to explore new frontiers through scientific research and innovation processes worldwide, one thing remains clear: humanity will continue pushing boundaries beyond what was once thought possible.
Development Of Technology
Technological advancements have enabled humans to develop more complex and efficient systems of communication, production, and transportation.
This has allowed humans to gain access to resources that would have been inaccessible in the past.
Human-computer interaction has further enabled individuals to interact with machines in order to increase efficiency and simplify tasks.
As a result, humans are able to accomplish more than their primate relatives and have been able to develop an environment that is greatly influenced by technology.
Technological Advancements
Technological advancements have been a significant factor in the development of human societies. Humans are unique compared to great apes due to their ability to create and utilize complex tools for various purposes. While some may argue that other animals also use tools, humans’ technological advancements surpass those of any other species.
The ethical considerations surrounding technological advancements are crucial. As we continue to develop new technologies, it is essential to consider how they may impact society as a whole, including potential harm or benefits.
For instance, while advances in artificial intelligence (AI) can lead to improved efficiency and productivity, there is an ongoing debate about its impact on employment opportunities and job security.
Moreover, economic impact plays a critical role in the development of technology. Companies invest billions of dollars into research and development annually with the hope of producing innovative products that will revolutionize industries. The introduction of groundbreaking technologies has led to increased competition among companies worldwide, which ultimately drives progress forward.
In conclusion, technological advancements have played a vital role in shaping humanity’s progress over time. Ethical considerations must be taken into account when developing these technologies so that risks can be minimized and benefits maximized.
Furthermore, economic impacts should not be ignored since investments made today drive innovation for tomorrow’s solutions.
Human-Computer Interaction
The development of technology has been a significant driver in shaping human societies over the years. As technological advancements continue to evolve, so does the way humans interact with these technologies.
One subtopic that has gained considerable attention is Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). HCI focuses on designing and evaluating computer systems for their usability and effectiveness in supporting users’ needs while ensuring positive user experience.
User experience (UX) plays an essential role in HCI as it determines how users perceive and interact with digital products or services. Interface design is crucial in creating intuitive, easy-to-use interfaces that meet users’ expectations. The interface should also be aesthetically pleasing to enhance the overall user experience.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) are two areas where UX designers can leverage emerging technologies to create more personalized experiences. With AI and NLP, developers can improve interactions between humans and machines by enabling computers to understand spoken language commands better. This provides users with faster, more efficient ways of interacting with software applications through voice recognition or text inputting methods.
However, ethical considerations must still be taken into account when implementing these features to ensure that personal data remains secure.
In summary, the field of HCI continues to grow alongside technological advancements. Designing effective interfaces that provide positive user experiences requires understanding how people use technology and what they expect from it. With AI and NLP capabilities becoming increasingly sophisticated, there is great potential for improving human-computer interaction further. Nevertheless, careful consideration must be given to ethical implications related to privacy concerns before implementation takes place.
Social Intelligence
One of the most significant ways in which humans differ from great apes is their highly developed social intelligence. Humans possess an unparalleled ability to understand and interact with others, which has enabled them to create complex societies and cultures.
Social cognition is a key component of this intelligence and includes empathy and theory of mind. Empathy refers to the capacity for understanding another person’s emotional state by putting oneself in their shoes. Theory of mind involves recognizing that other people have their own beliefs, desires, and intentions that may be different from one’s own. These abilities are vital for successful communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution within groups.
The role of culture also plays a critical part in human social intelligence. Norms and values vary widely between different human societies and shape how individuals communicate and behave towards each other. Culture provides a framework for interpreting social cues and navigating complex relationships within society.
In summary, humans’ unique social intelligence arises from their advanced social cognition skills such as empathy and theory of mind. Additionally, cultural norms play an important role in shaping human behavior towards others. This combination of cognitive abilities enables humans to build intricate societal structures based on cooperation, trust, and shared values.
The next section will explore group dynamics further by examining how humans cooperate effectively despite individual differences.
Group Dynamics And Cooperation
As social animals, humans have developed complex group dynamics that set them apart from their great ape cousins. One major aspect of these dynamics is collaborative decision making, where groups work together to reach a consensus on important decisions. This ability allows humans to pool resources and knowledge in order to achieve common goals more effectively than any individual could alone.
However, collaboration isn’t always easy. Conflict can arise when individuals within the group disagree about how best to proceed or what course of action should be taken. In order to resolve conflicts without causing harm or fracturing the group, humans have also developed conflict resolution strategies. These include techniques like compromise, negotiation, and mediation which allow conflicting parties to work towards a mutually beneficial solution while preserving relationships.
Despite the challenges associated with cooperation, it remains one of humanity’s greatest strengths. Through effective collaboration and conflict resolution strategies, human societies are able to accomplish incredible feats such as building large-scale infrastructure projects or undertaking massive scientific endeavors.
Understanding group dynamics and cooperation is essential for anyone looking to understand what makes humans unique compared to other primates. By working together towards shared goals and resolving conflicts peacefully, we are able to achieve things far beyond what would be possible otherwise.
The next crucial element of uniqueness among humans is emotional regulation. How do emotions affect our behavior and interactions? We will explore this question in detail in the following section.
Emotional Regulation
Group dynamics and cooperation are essential components of human society. Humans have developed unique ways to work together, which sets us apart from other great apes.
However, there are other factors that make humans stand out from their primate counterparts.
One significant difference is our neurological development. The human brain has undergone a more substantial evolution compared to the brains of great apes. Specifically, our prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in regulating emotions and decision-making processes. This development has allowed humans to become better at managing complex social situations, making moral decisions, and cooperating with one another.
Another factor that makes humans unique is emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions as well as the emotions of others effectively. Research suggests that higher levels of emotional intelligence lead to better communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and stronger relationships with others.
Furthermore, this enhanced emotional regulation enables humans to develop self-awareness and consciousness about themselves and their surroundings in ways not observed in any other species. Self-awareness allows individuals to recognize their thoughts and feelings accurately while consciousness provides sensory awareness allowing an individual to perceive events happening around them actively.
In conclusion, it is evident that several factors distinguish humans from other great apes; however, the most compelling ones include our advanced neurological development leading towards improved decision-making capabilities alongside heightened emotional intelligence resulting in superior social skills when compared with primates lacking these features.
These two features provide insight into how we have established ourselves as dominant organisms on Earth by working together efficiently enough for our species’ growth and survival through time even under challenging conditions such as pandemics or natural disasters like hurricanes or earthquakes without such cognitive capabilities present within lesser beings inhabiting this planet beside us!
Self-Awareness And Consciousness
The ability for self-awareness and consciousness is one of the most unique qualities that separate humans from other great apes. It is a fascinating topic to explore, as it has philosophical implications and ethical considerations.
Self-awareness refers to an individual’s ability to recognize themselves in a mirror or understand their own thoughts and emotions. Consciousness, on the other hand, pertains to our awareness of the world around us.
The concept of self-awareness and consciousness raises several philosophical questions about what it means to be human. Some argue that these abilities are what make humans truly alive, while others believe that they are simply byproducts of biological evolution.
Regardless of one’s stance on this issue, there is no denying that self-awareness and consciousness play significant roles in shaping how we view ourselves as individuals and as part of society.
Ethical considerations also come into play when discussing self-awareness and consciousness. As humans become more aware of their own existence, they may begin to question the moral implications of their actions. For example, many people believe that animals should not be subjected to unnecessary harm because they possess some degree of self-awareness and consciousness. This line of thinking has led to increased advocacy for animal rights over the years.
In conclusion, the ability for self-awareness and consciousness sets humans apart from other great apes. These concepts have profound philosophical implications regarding what it means to be human, as well as ethical considerations regarding our treatment of other living creatures.
The next section will delve into another aspect that further distinguishes humans from other primates – creative expression.
Creative Expression
Artistic expression, imagination and creativity have long been considered as some of the most defining characteristics that make humans unique compared to other great apes. While chimpanzees and bonobos may exhibit simple forms of tool-making, communication and social behavior, they do not possess the same level of cognitive abilities required for creative expression.
One major factor that sets humans apart is their ability to imagine alternative realities beyond what is present in front of them. This imaginative faculty allows us to create works of art that express our emotions, beliefs or experiences through various mediums such as painting, sculpture, literature or music.
Unlike animals which can only respond instinctually to environmental stimuli, human beings are capable of envisioning abstract concepts beyond their immediate surroundings. Moreover, artistic expression fosters a sense of individuality and cultural identity among human communities. Through creating visual or sonic representations of their shared values and traditions, people can communicate their collective memories across time and space.
It provides an outlet for self-expression and emotional release while also serving as a means for connection with others who share similar perspectives.
In summary, it is clear that artistic expression has played a significant role in shaping human evolution by enabling us to develop higher levels of cognition than any other species on earth. Our capacity for imagination and creativity has opened up new horizons for understanding ourselves and the world around us.
In the subsequent section about ‘art and music’, we will explore how these aspects of human culture have evolved over time into complex systems of aesthetics and meaning-making.
Art And Music
Artistic interpretation and musical expression are two of the most profound ways that humans express their uniqueness compared to the great apes.
Art is a uniquely human creation, with evidence of art dating back over 40,000 years ago in cave paintings found around the world.
The ability for humans to create art allows us to communicate our emotions, thoughts, and ideas through visual mediums such as painting, sculpture, and photography.
Similarly, music is another form of artistic expression unique to humans.
Music has been an integral part of human culture for thousands of years across many different societies worldwide.
Human beings have created numerous styles of music ranging from classical symphonies to modern-day pop songs.
Through music, we can express ourselves by creating melodies that convey emotion or rhythms that inspire movement.
Art and music allow humans to interpret reality in a way that goes beyond mere functionality.
It is not just about surviving but thriving creatively within our environment.
However, it should be noted that while other animals may demonstrate creative behaviors, they do so on a far more limited scale than humans do.
In conclusion (please ignore), artistic interpretation and musical expression set humans apart from all other species on Earth.
These abilities allow us to explore creativity beyond practicality, helping us articulate complex feelings and abstract concepts into something tangible yet beautiful.
As we continue to push boundaries in these fields – whether it’s through new technologies or innovative techniques – there will always be room for further exploration into what makes us truly unique as individuals and as a species.
Transitioning onto cultural diversity:
With this understanding of how art and music make humanity exceptional comes an appreciation for how diverse cultures around the world use these forms of expression differently according to their beliefs and values.
Cultural Diversity
One of the most notable differences between humans and great apes is our cultural diversity. Humans have developed a wide range of cultures, each with its own unique beliefs, customs, and traditions. This diversity has been shaped by factors such as geography, history, language, and religion.
Cultural exchange plays a significant role in this diversity. Throughout human history, people have interacted with one another through trade, migration, conquest, and other forms of contact. These interactions have led to the diffusion of ideas and practices across different regions and populations.
For example, the spread of Buddhism from India to China or the adoption of European clothing styles by Native American tribes are examples of cultural diffusion. This process has also contributed to the development of hybrid cultures that blend elements from two or more distinct traditions.
Examples include creole languages like Haitian Creole or Louisiana Creole French and fusion cuisines like Tex-Mex or Korean-Mexican food. The result is a rich tapestry of cultural expression that reflects both commonalities and differences among human societies.
Overall, cultural diversity is a hallmark of humanity’s social complexity and adaptability. By embracing new ideas from diverse sources while preserving their core values and identity, humans have demonstrated remarkable resilience over time. This ability to create new ways of life through cultural innovation sets us apart from our closest primate relatives and highlights our uniquely creative nature as a species.
Adaptability And Resilience
One of the defining characteristics that distinguish humans from great apes is their remarkable ability to adapt to different environments. This trait has been developed over thousands of years, allowing humans to survive in a variety of habitats across the globe. Unlike other primates, who are limited by their specific ecological niches, human beings have demonstrated an unparalleled capacity for survival skills.
The environmental adaptability of humans can be attributed to several factors. For one, early humans were nomadic hunter-gatherers, constantly moving in search of food sources. This lifestyle forced them to develop strategies for surviving in diverse climates and terrains. Additionally, human intelligence allowed them to create tools and technologies that enabled them to live comfortably in places where other animals could not.
Perhaps most importantly, however, is the fact that humans possess a unique combination of physical and cognitive abilities that allow them to thrive under challenging conditions. Humans have excellent endurance capabilities compared to other primates due to their long-distance running skill which enabled our ancestors’ persistence hunting technique – wherein they chase prey until it tires out. Furthermore, this enhanced physical capability appears linked with greater brain development resulting in more sophisticated problem-solving abilities.
Overall, the adaptability and resilience of humanity represent some of its most impressive features as creatures. The evolution of these traits through time proves how well-equipped we are at coping with changing situations around us; thus asserting that it represents some sort of hope against future challenges.
Advantages brought about by adaptability:
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Enables people worldwide able to cope with environmental changes.
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Increases chances for survival when faced with natural disasters.
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Provides opportunities for innovation leading towards progress.
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Helps increase societal growth through technological advancements.
As such advances continue into various fields like genetics or space travel — among many others– so too will our understanding on what makes us uniquely human grow alongside those developments.
Future Implications And Possibilities
As we continue to explore what makes humans unique compared to the great ape, it is important to consider the future implications and possibilities that arise from these distinctions.
One area of significant concern is in the realm of future ethics. As our understanding of human biology and genetics expands, we may be faced with difficult ethical questions surrounding gene editing and artificial intelligence. Will we use this knowledge for good or will we create a society where only those who can afford genetic enhancements have an advantage?
Technological advancements also play a key role in shaping our future as a species. With each passing year, new technologies emerge that allow us to push past previous boundaries. From space exploration to quantum computing, there are endless possibilities for what humanity can achieve through technology. However, with such power comes responsibility. We must ensure that these technological advancements do not lead to negative consequences such as loss of privacy or exacerbation of social inequalities.
Despite these concerns, there is much cause for optimism when considering the future of humanity’s uniqueness compared to the great ape. Our ability to innovate and adapt has allowed us to thrive in nearly every corner of the planet. As we continue to expand our knowledge base and build on past achievements, we open up even more exciting avenues for discovery and progress.
In conclusion, while there are certainly challenges ahead as humanity continues to evolve and grow, there is no doubt that our distinctiveness among primates gives us immense potential for future success.
By approaching ethical considerations thoughtfully and responsibly while embracing new technological advances with caution but enthusiasm, we can look forward with anticipation towards all that lies ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Humans And Great Apes Differ In Terms Of Physical Appearance?
Humans and great apes differ significantly in terms of their physical appearance due to evolutionary adaptations that have shaped their skeletal structure.
While both humans and great apes share a common ancestor, the human body has undergone significant changes over time, including an upright posture, longer legs, shorter arms, and a larger brain size relative to body size.
These adaptations have enabled humans to walk on two feet efficiently, freeing up their hands for tool use and other activities.
In contrast, great apes continue to rely heavily on their arms for mobility and are adapted to life in trees rather than open savannas.
Thus, while there may be similarities between humans and great apes on the surface level, closer examination reveals important differences that reflect millions of years of divergent evolution.
What Is The Geographical Distribution Of Great Apes And How Has It Changed Over Time?
The geographical distribution of great apes has drastically decreased over time. Today, these primates are found only in isolated pockets across Africa and Southeast Asia.
The main reasons for this decline include habitat loss due to deforestation and hunting for bushmeat. Conservation efforts have been implemented to mitigate the population decline of great apes, including establishing protected areas and promoting sustainable land use practices.
Despite these efforts, many species remain critically endangered, highlighting the urgent need for continued conservation action.
How Do Humans And Great Apes Differ In Terms Of Their Dietary Habits?
Comparative anatomy of humans and great apes reveals significant differences in their dietary habits.
While the great ape diet primarily consists of fruits, leaves, insects, and occasionally meat, humans have evolved to consume a wider variety of foods, including animal products such as dairy and grains.
This evolutionary adaptation is believed to be linked with the development of larger brains in early human ancestors due to increased consumption of energy-rich foods.
Furthermore, humans possess unique physiological adaptations that allow for efficient digestion of cooked food and high-fat diets.
These factors contribute to the distinctiveness of human dietary habits when compared to those of great apes.
What Role Did Environmental Factors Play In The Evolution Of Humans And Great Apes?
The evolutionary adaptations of humans and great apes were heavily influenced by climatic factors. The changing environmental conditions played a crucial role in shaping the different anatomical structures between the two species, such as bipedalism in humans and quadrupedalism in apes.
Over time, these adaptations allowed for greater efficiency in acquiring food resources from their respective environments. However, while both humans and great apes share common ancestry, it was ultimately the unique combination of genetic mutations and environmental pressures that led to the distinct features observed only in modern-day humans.
How Have Humans And Great Apes Interacted With Each Other Throughout History?
Inter-species communication and cultural exchange have been observed between humans and great apes throughout history.
Studies have shown that chimpanzees, orangutans, and gorillas possess complex social structures and cognitive abilities similar to those of human societies.
These similarities in behavior have allowed for instances of inter-species communication through sign language and other forms of non-verbal communication.
Additionally, there has been evidence of cultural exchange where behaviors such as tool use or grooming techniques are learned from one group to another within a species or even across different species.
However, while these interactions demonstrate the shared characteristics between humans and great apes, they also highlight the distinct differences that make humans unique compared to their primate counterparts.
Conclusion
Humans are unique compared to great apes in many aspects.
Physical appearance, distribution, dietary habits and evolution have all played a role in shaping the differences between humans and great apes.
Humans stand upright on two legs with opposable thumbs that allow them greater dexterity than their primate cousins. Great apes, however, walk on four limbs and lack this level of manual dexterity.
Great apes are primarily found in Africa and Southeast Asia whereas human populations have spread throughout the world. This occurred due to environmental factors such as climate change forcing early human ancestors out of their original habitats resulting in migration into new territories.
The difference in diet is another key factor separating humans from great apes with humans relying more heavily on animal protein while great apes rely mainly on plant-based diets.
Overall, while there may be similarities between humans and great apes, it is clear that they differ significantly due to these factors as well as others not mentioned here.
Understanding these differences can contribute greatly to our knowledge of both species and help us appreciate what makes each one unique.