Part 2 Intro to nonhuman primates Flashcards
Why do we study primates?
To understand ourselves and evolutionary history.
Give an example of homology.
Humans and non-human primates share traits from common ancestors.
Give an example of analogy.
NHPs and humans have similar adaptations from similar environments.
List the three reasons of why we study non-human primates.
- Humans and NHP share common traits from ancestors.
- Humans and NHP have similar environments, therefore similar adaptations.
- They model how humans used to live as hunter gatherers.
What is sexual dimorphism?
When there are two distinct forms between the males and the females.
What is a referential model?
Use of one species to draw analogies with others.
What are the primitive characteristics of primates?
Warm-blooded, viviparity, lactation and mammary glands.
What five categories of species are included in primates?
Humans, apes, monkeys, tarsiers, strepsirhine.
What are some direct results of primates being a diverse order?
- They inhabit a variety of habitats.
- They have diverse diets.
- They have a different types of locomotion
- Varied activity patterns.
- Diverse social systems.
What is the primate pattern?
The traits shared between primates are more generalized rather than having a distinct derived trait.
What are the four general complexes of primates?
- Grasping hands and feet.
- Sensory system.
- Large complex brains and associated behaviour.
- Skeletal and dental features.
What are the three aspects of grasping hands and feet?
- Opposable thumb.
- Nails instead of claws for sensitive tactile pads.
- Power and precision grip.
When you have 5 digits on each limb, what is this called?
Pentadactyly.
Which species’ limbs for primates are exceptions to the opposable thumb?
Human foot. Callitrichids have re-developed claws (derived).
What are the general aspects of our sensory system?
Vision is enhanced by:
1. Forward facing eyes.
2. Stereoscopic vision (view from 2 angle/eyes for 3-D)
Olfaction (smell) is limited.
