Marmosets

Marmosets are small New World monkeys in the family Callitrichidae. The family includes several genera of diminutive primates, commonly referred to as marmosets and tamarins. They inhabit tropical and subtropical forests across northern South America, from the Amazon Basin to the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, and into parts of Paraguay and eastern Bolivia. About 17 species are recognized, and many have distinctive ear tufts or striped fur.

Physically, marmosets are among the smallest primates, typically measuring 15 to 20 cm in body length with tails of similar or greater length, and weighing roughly 300 to 500 grams. They have short legs, long fingers, and sharp incisors adapted for gouging tree bark to stimulate the flow of sap. They possess claw-like nails rather than flat nails, which aids in clinging to bark and foraging in trees. A dental comb is used for grooming and feeding.

Ecology and diet: Marmosets are primarily arboreal and diurnal. They rely heavily on tree gum and other exudates, but also consume fruit, nectar, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates. They forage in family groups and communicate with a variety of vocalizations, scent marking, and duets between mates.

Social structure and reproduction: They live in small, cohesive groups usually led by a dominant pair, with several helpers that participate in guarding offspring and carrying young. The typical litter consists of twins, after a gestation of about four months; care is shared among group members.

Conservation: Habitat loss and the pet trade threaten many species. IUCN assessments range from Least Concern to Endangered, reflecting diversity in distribution, population size, and threats across species.