primate classification

primates

taxonomic order, non-human primates closest relatives of our species

primate characteristic: brain

large and complex brain. cerebrum size increases as primates become higher evolved

primate classification: olfactory

as primates evolve, reduction in olfactory system (scent)

primate classification: vision

eyes become more ‘forward facing’ for 3D vision, most distinguish colour

primate classification: digits

primates have nails instead of claws and grasping extremities, general pentadactyl limb structure (five fingers/toes, opposable first digit

primate classification: reproduction

non-restricted breeding season, rhythmical sexual cycle, one offspring at a time, long period of gestational/parental care

primate classification: dentition

four incisors in both upper and lower jaw

primate suborders

prosimians, anthropoids

prosimians (lorises, lemurs, tarsiers)

least evolved of primates, generally located in equatorial regions of world (eg Madagascar), arboreal (tree dwelling)

anthropoids

more evolved primates. contains new/old world monkeys, lesser and great ape

new world monkeys

all primates south and central America, next in evolution on primates. contains five families but grouped under Ceboidea, families arboreal and have prehensile tails

old world monkeys

all primates Africa or Asia, more evolved than cerboidea. boreal and terrestrial with prehensile tails

lesser apes

all apes dont have tail, and have more social communication than other primates, more evolved than previous primates, arboreal and terrestrial

great apes

most evolved of all primates, have characteristics of lesser apes but larger and more evolved. shows lot more sexual dimorphism (variation between sexes), mostly terrestrial (occasionally arboreal)