tarsatus

Tarsatus is a genus of extinct primates that lived during the Eocene epoch, around 56 to 48 million years ago. The name Tarsatus comes from the Greek word for "suspender", referring to the long limbs and flexible joints of these early primate ancestors.

Tarsatus fossils have been found in Europe and Asia, and are characterized by their relatively large body size and advanced primate traits. They had long, slender limbs, with hands and feet that were well-suited for climbing and brachiation, or swinging from tree to tree. Their skeletons also showed a mix of primitive and advanced features, indicating a transition towards more modern primate body plans.

Two species of Tarsatus have been identified, T. eocaenus and T. fabreanus. Both species were similar in size, with adult individuals estimated to have weighed around 1-2 kilograms. Distinguishing characteristics of these species include the shape and size of their teeth, and the presence of distinct facial features.

Tarsatus is thought to be closely related to modern tarsiers, and is often classified as a precursor to this distinct tribe of jumping primates. Fossil evidence suggests that Tarsatus was a diurnal, or day-active, animal, which is in contrast to the nocturnal habits of modern tarsiers. Despite the limitations of fossil records, studies of Tarsatus remains have provided valuable insights into the evolution of early primate adaptations and behaviors.