Callithrix

This genus includes a captivating group of primates known as marmosets, native to the forests of South America. These small, sprightly creatures are famed for their expressive faces, lush fur, and dynamic social behaviors, making them one of the most enchanting primate groups to observe both in the wild and in captivity.

Marmosets of the Callithrix genus typically have a body size no larger than 20 cm (8 in) in length, but what they lack in size, they make up for in appearance and agility. They possess dense, silky fur that can vary dramatically in color among species, ranging from shades of brown and gray to golden and white. Their tails are long and bushy, often exceeding the length of their bodies, and are used for balance and signaling within their social groups. One of the most distinctive features of marmosets is their facial hair that frames their features, including tufts of hair on their ears or elongated whiskers that enhance their keen sense of touch.

These tiny primates are arboreal, spending most of their lives in the treetops of dense rainforests where they adeptly leap and scurry along branches. Unlike the flattened nails found on most primates, their claws are sharp and allow them to cling to bark and climb with ease. This adaptation is beneficial for their feeding habits, which primarily involve foraging for insects, fruit, and tree sap—the latter of which they obtain by gnawing holes in tree bark with their specialized teeth.

Socially, Callithrix marmosets are highly interactive and live in cooperative groups, usually consisting of an adult breeding pair and their offspring, including those from several generations. These groups work together to rear young and defend their territory against rivals. Communication within the troop is sophisticated, involving a complex array of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body postures.