Marmosets and tamarins.

Citation

Buchanan-Smith H (2024) Marmosets and tamarins.. In: Golledge H & Richardson C (eds.) The UFAW Handbook on the care and management of laboratory and other research animals. 9th ed. New Jersey: Wiley, pp. 683-706. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119555278.ch37

Abstract
The New World monkeys of the family Callitrichidae has seven genera, and include the marmosets, tamarins and lion tamarins. Figure 37.1 illustrates the species most frequently held in captivity. There is little sexual dimorphism, and they are adapted to give birth to twins that all group members help to rear (Figure 37.1b). Species show a range of interesting pelage forms and colourations; some have ear tufts, others white crests on their heads or a large moustache, and some sport a golden fringe about the face. Why many of these small primates, which are vulnerable to predation by birds, snakes and mammals, are brightly coloured rather than cryptic is poorly understood. Justification of the use of callitrichids in research should adhere to the Three Rs principle, and be based upon their suitability as models. Their small size, combined with their breeding success when housed in an appropriate environment, and easy handling make them a comparatively inexpensive primate to maintain in laboratories. However, without a good understanding of the natural history and basic adaptations of a species, it is not possible to provide appropriate environmental conditions, which ultimately impacts animal welfare and the quality of science conducted upon them (Buchanan-Smith 2010; Buchanan-Smith et al. in press). See: https://www.marmosetcare.stir.ac.uk/

Keywords
breeding programmes; drug development; housing callitrichids; marmosets; social organization; tamarins