In anthropology and primatology, the term catarrhine nose refers to the distinctive nasal structure of Catarrhini, one of the two major infraorders of primates (the other being Platyrrhini).

🌍 Definition

• Catarrhines: Old World monkeys, apes, and humans.
• Catarrhine Nose:
  • Characterized by downward-facing nostrils that are close together.
  • Contrasts with platyrrhine noses (New World monkeys), which have broad, outward-facing nostrils.

🔑 Anthropological & Evolutionary Contexts

• Taxonomic Marker:
  • Nose shape is a key diagnostic trait distinguishing Old World primates (Catarrhini) from New World primates (Platyrrhini).
• Geographic Distribution:
  • Catarrhines are native to Africa and Asia.
• Evolutionary Significance:
  • The narrow, downward-facing nostrils are linked to differences in facial morphology and possibly olfactory adaptation.
• Human Connection:
  • Humans, as catarrhines, share this nasal structure with other Old World primates.

📚 Importance in Anthropology

• Comparative Anatomy: Helps anthropologists classify primates and trace evolutionary relationships.
• Cultural Anthropology Link: While primarily anatomical, nose morphology has also been tied to environmental adaptation (e.g., narrower noses in colder, drier climates).
• Evolutionary Biology: Demonstrates divergence between Old World and New World primates ~35–40 million years ago.

In short: A catarrhine nose is the downward-facing, closely spaced nostril structure of Old World primates, including humans, serving as a key anatomical marker in primate classification and evolution.