chrysomelas

Chrysomelas is a genus name historically used for a group of small New World monkeys in the family Callitrichidae. The name combines Greek chryso for gold and melas for black, a reference to distinctive facial or fur markings observed in some members of the taxon. The status of Chrysomelas as a valid genus has varied; several authorities retain it as a distinct genus, while others have placed species previously included in Chrysomelas in other genera such as Saguinus or Leontopithecus or treat it as a subgenus. As a result, contemporary classifications differ in which species are assigned to Chrysomelas.

In appearance, monkeys placed in or formerly placed in Chrysomelas are small, with dense fur and often contrasting facial markings. They are arboreal and diurnal, living in tropical forests of northern South America. They tend to form small, cohesive social groups and exhibit cooperative breeding, with non-breeding helpers assisting in care of offspring. Diet generally includes fruits, insects, and plant exudates.

Habitat and range: tropical forests in the Amazon and adjacent regions; associated with both primary and secondary forest; elevation low to mid-range.

Conservation: habitat loss and fragmentation threaten several species previously assigned to Chrysomelas; IUCN statuses range from Least Concern to Endangered depending on the taxon.

Taxonomy history: first described as a genus in the early 20th century; subsequent revisions have reshaped its composition.

See also: tamarins, Callitrichidae.