Pygmy marmoset

rdf:langString Pygmy marmoset

rdf:langString Pygmy marmoset

rdf:langString Gray, 1866

rdf:langString IUCN3.1

rdf:langString *Cebuella pygmaea *Cebuella niveiventris

rdf:langString Species

rdf:langString Cebuella

rdf:langString Pygmy marmosets are two species of small New World monkeys in the genus Cebuella. They are native to rainforests of the western Amazon Basin in South America. These primates are notable for being the smallest monkeys in the world, at just over 100 grams (3.5 oz). They are generally found in evergreen and river-edge forests and are gum-feeding specialists, or gummivores. About 83% of the pygmy marmoset population lives in stable troops of two to nine individuals, including a dominant male, a breeding female, and up to four successive litters of offspring. The modal size of a standard stable troop would be six individuals. Although most groups consist of family members, some may also include one or two additional adult members. Members of the group communicate using a complex system including vocal, chemical, and visual signals. Three main calling signals depend on the distance the call needs to travel. These monkeys may also make visual displays when threatened or to show dominance. Chemical signaling using secretions from glands on the chest and genital area allow the female to indicate to the male when she is able to reproduce. The female gives birth to twins twice a year and the parental care is shared between the group. The pygmy marmoset has been viewed as somewhat different from typical marmosets, most of which are classified in the genera Callithrix (where they were placed in a subgenus) and Mico, and thus is accorded its own genus, Cebuella, within the family Callitrichidae. The biggest threats are habitat loss and the pet trade.