Ameranthropoides loys
Field Report
Ameranthropoides loysi is based on a single photo taken by Swiss geologist François de Loys, allegedly showing an ape-like creature with humanlike proportions and no tail. The photo caused a stir in the 1920s as a potential discovery of a South American anthropoid. However, skeptics believe it’s a misidentified spider monkey. Its name was given retroactively to classify it scientifically, despite lack of specimen. It has inspired debates in cryptozoology as a case of either photographic hoax or overlooked species. The original location remains remote and poorly documented. No follow-up sightings have occurred.
Classification
Type:Primate
Location:Venezuela–Colombia border near Rio Tarra
Traits:Ape-like, no tail, long limbs, facial expressions like humans
Threat Assessment
Danger Level: 4.5
First Reported: 1920
Sightings: 1
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Behavioral Patterns
It was observed standing upright and displaying curiosity toward the observers before being shot. Its behavior was more passive than confrontational, with no indication of aggression.
Folklore & Origins
Early 20th-century reports in South America claimed the discovery of a tailless ape resembling a proto-human.
Media Documentation
Briefly covered in older cryptozoological texts and sometimes cited in discussions on hoaxes or misidentified primates. Rarely appears in recent media or academic reviews. Media mentions are minimal and often critical in tone.
Hoax Analysis
The photograph of a supposed South American ape-man was presented by François de Loys in the 1920s. It was later determined that the creature was likely a spider monkey posed for scale, making this a documented zoological hoax.