The chimpanzee (/ tʃ ɪ m p æ n ˈ z i /; Pan troglodytes), also simply known as the chimp, is a species of great ape native to the forests and savannahs of tropical Africa. It has four confirmed subspecies and a fifth proposed one.

Chimpanzees live in a leaner hierarchy wherein more than one individual may be dominant enough to dominate other members of lower rank. Typically, a dominant male is referred to as the alpha male. The alpha male is the highest-ranking male that controls the group and maintains order during disputes.

Chimpanzee, species of ape that, along with the bonobo, is most closely related to humans. Chimpanzees vary considerably in size and appearance, but they stand approximately 1–1.7 meters (3–5.5 feet) tall when erect and weigh about 32–60 kg (70–130 pounds).

Although it is smaller than the common chimp, the former name is thought to refer to the term used for Africans that share the bonobo range. Chimpanzees have arms that are about 1.5 times their height. They are brachiators, meaning they are able to travel by swinging across tree limbs and branches.