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key term - Platyrrhini

Citation:

Definition

Platyrrhini, also known as New World monkeys, is a parvorder of primates that includes monkeys found in Central and South America. They are characterized by a broad, flattened nose and nostrils that are directed outward, distinguishing them from the Catarrhini, or Old World monkeys, which have narrow, downward-facing nostrils.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Platyrrhini are found exclusively in the Americas, with the majority of species residing in South America.
  2. They are distinguished from Catarrhini by their broad, flattened noses and outward-facing nostrils, which are adaptations to their arboreal lifestyle.
  3. Platyrrhini exhibit a diverse range of characteristics, including prehensile tails, adaptations for vertical clinging and leaping, and the presence of opposable thumbs.
  4. Many Platyrrhini species are known for their complex social behaviors, including group living, cooperative foraging, and the use of vocalizations and gestures for communication.
  5. Platyrrhini are an important model for the study of primate evolution and behavior, as they diverged from the Catarrhini lineage approximately 40 million years ago.

Review Questions

  • Describe the key anatomical features that distinguish Platyrrhini (New World monkeys) from Catarrhini (Old World monkeys).
    • The primary anatomical feature that distinguishes Platyrrhini from Catarrhini is the shape and orientation of the nostrils. Platyrrhini have a broad, flattened nose with nostrils that are directed outward, while Catarrhini have narrow, downward-facing nostrils. This difference in nasal structure is an adaptation to the arboreal lifestyle of New World monkeys, allowing them to navigate the dense foliage of their South and Central American habitats. Additionally, many Platyrrhini species possess prehensile tails and adaptations for vertical clinging and leaping, which are not found in Old World monkeys.
  • Explain the significance of the Platyrrhini-Catarrhini split in the evolutionary history of primates.
    • The divergence of the Platyrrhini and Catarrhini lineages approximately 40 million years ago is a crucial event in primate evolution. This split represents the separation of the New World monkeys from the Old World monkeys and apes, leading to the development of distinct anatomical and behavioral characteristics in each group. The Platyrrhini-Catarrhini split is an important marker for understanding the diversification of primates and the adaptations that allowed them to thrive in their respective environments. Studying the evolutionary history and adaptations of these two major primate groups provides valuable insights into the broader patterns of primate evolution and the factors that have shaped the diversity of primates worldwide.
  • Analyze the role of Platyrrhini species as model organisms for the study of primate behavior and evolution.
    • Platyrrhini, or New World monkeys, are valuable model organisms for the study of primate behavior and evolution due to their unique characteristics and evolutionary history. As a lineage that diverged from the Catarrhini (Old World monkeys and apes) approximately 40 million years ago, Platyrrhini exhibit a range of adaptations and social behaviors that offer insights into the broader patterns of primate evolution. Their diverse species, found exclusively in the Americas, provide opportunities to investigate the factors that have shaped the development of complex social structures, communication systems, and cognitive abilities in primates. Additionally, the study of Platyrrhini can shed light on the evolutionary drivers that have led to the anatomical and physiological differences between New World and Old World primates, contributing to our understanding of primate diversity and the processes of adaptation and speciation.

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