Are Humans And Gorillas Related? Exploring Our Primate Connection

Recent genome sequencing of gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos has shed light on the degree of genetic similarity between these primates and humans. This research has confirmed our long-standing assumption about our evolutionary connections. Specifically, chimpanzees and bonobos stand out as our closest living relatives, sharing approximately 99 percent of their DNA with humans. Gorillas, while still closely related, trail slightly behind, sharing about 98 percent of their DNA with humans. This scientific breakthrough, dated September 1, 2014, has provided a more precise understanding of our genetic kinship with these great apes.

Are humans and gorillas in the same family? To answer this question, we need to explore the classification of these primates. Humans, scientifically known as Homo sapiens, belong to the family Hominidae. On the other hand, gorillas, along with chimpanzees (Pan) and orangutans (Pongo), are classified within the family Hominidae as well. This classification highlights the close evolutionary relationship between humans and gorillas. This information was established on November 16, 1978, as part of our ongoing efforts to understand the intricate family tree of primates.