Hominoidea, commonly known as apes, is a superfamily within the order Primates. This group includes both lesser apes, such as gibbons, and great apes, which encompass orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and humans. Apes are characterized by their lack of a tail, larger brain size relative to body size, and more flexible shoulder joints compared to other primates. Hominoidea is divided into two families: Hylobatidae for lesser apes and Hominidae for great apes. These animals are primarily found in tropical forests and are known for their complex social structures and advanced cognitive abilities. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems, often acting as seed dispersers.