Primates

What is a primate?

An order of mammales characterised by the retention of primitive, generalised traits allowing a high degree of adaptability

What do all primates show?

Similar anatomical, physiological, and developmental characteristics

What are the general characteristics of primates?

• Limbs

• Teeth

• Diet

• Senses, brain, and behaviour

What are the limbs of primates like?

• Primitive limb anatomy (pentadactyl limb)

• Nails rather than claws

• Grasping hands and feet (for more dexterity)

• Upright posture

What are the teeth of primates like?

• Primitive dental anatomy: one or more of each type of tooth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Non-specialised molars. Exception: tooth comb in prosimians

• Trend towards the reduction of the number of teeth across the order of primates (humans have the most generalised)

What is the diet of primates like?

Primates are omnivorous, some have more specialised diets (frugivores, insectivores, folivores)

What are the senses, brain, and behaviour of primates like?

• Short snorts

• Large eyes

• Big brains

• Flexible behaviour

• Extended infant care

• Large social groups