Callithrix

The genera Mico and Callibella were formerly considered a subgenus of the genus Callithrix. Callithrix differs from Mico in dental morphology and geographic distribution; Callithrix species are distributed near the Atlantic coast of Brazil, while Mico species are distributed further inland. Callithrix differs from Callibella in these features, as well as in size, with Callithrix species being significantly larger. Callithrix species differ from the tamarins of the genus Saguinus in that Callithrix has enlarged mandibular incisor teeth the same size as the canine teeth, which are used for gouging holes in trees to extract exudates.

Some authorities, including Rosenberger (1981), believe that the pygmy marmoset, genus Cebuella, should be included within Callithrix on the basis of genetic studies, although Cebuella is significantly smaller than Callithrix.

In general, Callithrix and Mico species tend to form larger groups and live within smaller home ranges, thus live in higher population densities, than other callitrichids, but these statistics can vary dramatically among various Callithrix species. C. jacchus and C. pencillata typically have home territories less than 10 hectares, while other Callithrix species tend to have larger home territories.

Species

The genus includes these species:

Exudates, such as gum and sap, fruit, nectar, and fungi make up the bulk of Callthrix species' diet, but they also eat animal prey such as arthropods, young birds, and small lizards and frogs. They are specialized for exploiting exudates by their elongated, chisel-like lower incisors and a wide jaw gape that allows them to gouge bark of trees that produce gums. Their intestines also have an enlarged, complex cecum that allows them to digest gums more efficiently than most other animals. The ability of Callithrix species to feed on exudates allows them to survive in areas where fruit is highly seasonal or not readily available. Some species, such as C. jacchus and C. pencillata, have been known to inhabit city parks, backyards, and coconut plantations.

Callithrix females generally give birth to two, and sometimes more infants at a time. They can ovulate and conceive within 2-4 weeks after giving birth, and ovulation is not inhibited by lactation. Polygyny is known to occur in several Callithrix species. Infanticide is also known to occur, at least within C. jacchus, in which the dominant female kills the offspring of a subordinate female. Females generally reach sexual maturity between 12 and 17 months, and males between 15 and 25 months.