These primates, residing within the world’s largest tropical biome, represent a diverse group of species uniquely adapted to their arboreal environment. These creatures exhibit a wide range of behaviors, diets, and social structures, playing integral roles within the complex ecosystem. Examples include the small, agile marmosets and tamarins, as well as the larger, more robust howler monkeys.
Their presence contributes significantly to seed dispersal and forest regeneration, directly influencing plant diversity and ecosystem health. Throughout history, indigenous communities have held profound connections with these animals, often incorporating them into their mythology, diet, and traditional practices. Their health can also be a valuable indicator of the overall well-being of their environment, signaling changes in habitat quality or the presence of environmental stressors.