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Click on the best response to each question
1. How many primate species exist today?
Today, more than 200 species of primates are recognized. The exact number varies based on the distinctions made between species and subspecies. It is becoming more common to classify primates based on the number of taxa (i.e., species), subspecies, and isolated populations, which number approximately 600. (Unit 1)
2. Gorillas are the largest primate, with adult males often weighing more that 200 kilograms. By comparison, how much does the mouse lemur (Microcebus myoxinus) weigh?
The mouse lemur weighs between 24 and 38 grams. It is a nocturnal species native to west central Madagascar and an endangered species of primates. (Units 1 and 2)
3. Do primates live in tropical climates only?
Yes No
Several species of primates, such as the Japanese macaque (snow monkey) and rhesus macaques, live in temperate climates. (Units 1 and 2)
4. Large male primates can mate with the female of their choice.
True False
When large male primates fight with one another, they are sometimes fighting for the privilege to court the female of their choice. Because a male cannot force a female to copulate, he must use his social skills to convince her to mate with him. This is called female choice. (Units 4 and 5)
5. Do you recognize this monkey? What part of the world does it come from?
Although the white-face capuchin has appeared in many movies [e.g., Outbreak (Africa) and Anaconda (Borneo)], it actually lives in Central America and parts of South America. Because of its many Hollywood appearances, it has become popular in the pet trade, which is a factor that contributes to the threat of extinction for many species. (Unit 10)
6. Can primates lie to each other?
Studies have shown that primates have a “theory of mind,” that is, they seem to know what the others know and are able to use this knowledge to deceive and manipulate. This is often referred to as Machiavellian intelligence. (Units 7 and 8)
7. Are primates the only animals that use tools in the wild?
Several other animals use tools, including many species of birds. In fact, only a few species of primates have been observed to use tools in the wild, the most famous of which is the chimpanzee. However, many populations of chimpanzees have never been observed using tools. (Unit 9)
8. You may have heard this sound before. What is it?
Although it is often thought to be a monkey call, this sound is made by the Kookaburra (bird), which lives in Australia. Its famous call is often heard in jungle movies, regardless of location.
9. Do primates ever commit murder?
Although the term murder is reserved for humans, a few instances of what might be called murder have been observed among primates. Although these occurrences are very rare, it does reinforce the similarities between us and our closest relatives. (Unit 11)
10. What is the greatest threat to primate conservation?
While all of these factors threaten primate conservation, the greatest threat today is from deforestation for purposes of logging or cultivating land for human populations. (Unit 10)
