Low risk (Least concern)
White-headed marmoset
Species
C. geoffroyi
Order
Primates
Family
Callitrichidae
Conservation status
Tamarins are distinguished from other New World monkeys by their small size, the presence of claws instead of nails, and the frequent occurrence of twin births.
Characteristics
Behavior, Diet, and Habitat
Interesting Facts
Characteristics
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These are small primates of Brazilian origin, about 20 cm in length, with a ringed tail measuring 29 cm. Females weigh around 200 g, while males are slightly larger, weighing between 250–350 g. They are characterized by their white face and forehead, black tufts on the ears, and their striking striped coloration on the back.
In terms of reproduction, only the dominant pair in the group will breed. Gestation lasts about 140–148 days. Twin births are most common, although single offspring or even triplets may occur. The mother carries the young to feed them, nursing them for about 5–6 months. Other group members also participate in carrying and grooming the young.
Behavior, Diet, and Habitat
It is a diurnal species with mostly arboreal behavior. They live in social groups of up to 15 individuals, with one dominant pair.
In terms of communication, they use various types of vocalizations, facial expressions, scent-marking with odor glands, and grooming.
They inhabit lowland forests, dry forests, and scrubland. They spend part of the day foraging for food (24–30% of the day) and show adaptations for stripping tree bark to obtain sap and gums. They can be described as frugivore-insectivores: they eat fruits, flowers, nectar, and plant exudates, but also animal prey such as insects, spiders, frogs, lizards, and eggs.
Interesting Facts
In each breeding season, only one dominant female will reproduce. Her dominant behavior is capable of suppressing ovulation in the other females of the group. This process may be reinforced by the pheromones produced in the dominant female’s scent glands. As a result, subordinate females cannot reproduce while they remain within the group.