Tarsiidae

Tarsiidae is a family of small, nocturnal primates known as tarsiers. They are native to Southeast Asia, with species found in the Philippines, Borneo, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and surrounding islands. Tarsiers are arboreal and rely on keen vision, hearing, and their specialized limbs to navigate dense forests at night.

Taxonomy and evolution: Tarsiidae forms the sole living family of the infraorder Tarsiiformes within Haplorhini. The family comprises a small number of extant genera, including Tarsius and Cephalopachus, although some classifications have recognized the Philippine tarsier in a separate genus such as Carlito.

Anatomy and adaptations: Tarsiers are among the smallest primates, typically weighing under 200 grams with body lengths around 8-15 cm and a tail often longer than the body. They have very large eyes for their size, immovable eyeballs, and extremely elongated ankle bones that enable vertical clinging and powerful leaps between branches.

Ecology and behavior: They are primarily insectivorous, taking insects and small vertebrates. Most species are solitary or form small family groups, and territorial calls help maintain boundaries. The young are carried by the mother and have a long period of parental care before independence.

Conservation: Habitat loss, logging, and hunting threaten many tarsier species. Several are listed as vulnerable or endangered by the IUCN. Conservation measures include habitat protection, research, and community-based protection and ecotourism.