The Callitrichidae are the most diverse family of Neotropical primates, encompassing 5-6 genera and 41-42 species. They range from the Isthmus of Panama to southeastern Brazil, but are most diverse in the Amazon and the Atlantic Forest. Callithricids are mainly arboreal, and inhabit primary and secondary tropical rain forests, but also gallery forests in savanna (cerrado), semi-deciduous, and dry forests. At least 8 species are endangered or critically endangered. Marmosets and tamarins are the smallest of the simian primates, with head and body length 13-29 cm, tail length 15-40 cm, and weight 100-620 g. The pelage is brightly coloured, contrasting, or plain. Several species possess ear tufts. The tails are long and non-prehensile. All of the digits, except toes, have sharp claws. Callithricids are diurnal and live in family groups of 4-15 individuals, usually consisting of a reproductively active female, 1-2 males, and their offspring. Polyandry is common in this taxon, although monogamy also occurs. The male or males share the responsibility of carrying and protecting the young. Marmosets and tamarins feed on insects and other invertebrates, but also fruit, tree exudates, fungi, nectar, and small vertebrates (e.g., treefrogs, and bird eggs and nestlings).

		Common Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)
		Black-tufted Marmoset (Callithrix penicillata)
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