This chapter is the second of three (7–9) that focus on primate taxonomy, behavior, and biology. Whereas Chapter 7 discussed general primate characteristics, the present chapter deals with variation within the Order. The chapter begins with a discussion of the traditional primate suborders of prosimians and anthropoids (with discussion of alternative schemes). The monkeys are then reviewed, followed by discussion of hominoid characteristics, and a detailed survey of the living apes.
1. You should understand the taxonomic classification system introduced by Linnaeus. You should know how to analyze the similarity of traits between species, and how to distinguish between homology and homoplasy, and primitive and derived traits. |
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2. You should be able to distinguish between the systems of phenetics and cladistics. |
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3. You should be familiar with the Vertebrate subphylum and the characteristics of the Mammal class. |
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4. You should know the characteristics of the order Primates including aspects of the skeleton, vision, brain, behavior, reproduction, care of offspring, and social structure. |
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5. You should understand various models of primate behavior including behavioral ecology and sociobiology. |
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6. You should know some of the threats to survival of living primates today, as well as possible avenues for conservation. |