Callithrix

primate genus

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July 15, 2026

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The genus Callithrix refers to a group of small, long-tailed South American monkeys known as marmosets. These primates are similar in appearance to squirrels and are tree-dwelling, moving with a quick, jerky motion. Their diet consists primarily of insects, supplemented with fruit, tree sap, and other small animals.1

Marmosets are active during the day and live in small groups. They typically give birth to twins. The genus Callithrix includes "true" marmosets, which have short lower canine teeth. This group also includes pygmy marmosets, the smallest among them, and the common marmoset found in northeastern Brazil. Tamarins are a related group with longer lower canines.12

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marmoset
The “true” marmosets (genus Callithrix) have short lower canine teeth (short-tusked), whereas marmosets with relatively long lower canines (long-tusked) are known as tamarins (genera Saguinus and Leontopithecus). The two species of pygmy marmosets (C. pygmaea and C. niveiventris) are the smallest “true” marmosets. They live in the rainforests of…
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The “true” marmosets (genus Callithrix) have short lower canine teeth (short-tusked), whereas marmosets with relatively long lower canines (long-tusked) are known as tamarins (genera Saguinus and Leontopithecus). The two species of pygmy marmosets (C. pygmaea and C. niveiventris) are the smallest “true” marmosets. They live in the rainforests of…
Read More