White marmoset

The White Marmoset ( Callithrix Leucippe or Mico Leucippe ) is a primate of the family of marmosets. Until recently, it was still combined with the silver monkey to one species.

Features

White Marmoset, like all marmosets relatively small primates. They reach a body length 21-24 inches, the tail is 27 to 37 inches long. Their fur is colored predominantly white, the limbs and long tail are yellowish - in contrast to the silver monkey whose tail is black. The face is hairless, large ears protrude from the skin. As with all marmosets are located on the fingers and toes (except the big toe ) claws instead of nails.

Area of ​​distribution and habitat

White marmosets inhabit a small area in the eastern Amazon basin in the Brazilian state of Pará. Its distribution area is located between the Rio Tapajós and the Rio Cuparí. Their habitat are rainforests, where they mainly reside in secondary forests and in more densely vegetated forest edges.

Way of life

Little is known about the habits of these primates, it 's probably true in line with the rest of the marmoset. Thus, they are active during the day and sleep at night among the lush vegetation or in tree hollows. They are arboreal and move on all fours or by jumping.

Marmosets live in groups of 4 to 15 animals, which are organized around with intact pair. Their diet consists of tree sap - for what they are with their specialized teeth adapted in the lower jaw, with which they are able to gnaw holes in the tree bark. In addition, they also eat insects and other small animals as well as fruits. As with all marmosets mostly twins are born. The father and the other group members participate actively in the rearing of the young.

Endangering

Since roads are being built in the area of ​​distribution of the White Marmoset in the 1970s, this region is increasingly exposed to forest clearance and the establishment of plantations. There are no protected areas in the distribution area. The total population has declined, according to estimates by the IUCN in the last 18 years by 30%, the type is 'at risk' ( vulnerable ) listed.