Question map
Which one of the following groups of animals are primates ?
Explanation
The Order Primates is a diverse group of mammals that includes lemurs, lorises, tarsiers, monkeys, apes, and humans [t1][t6]. Lemurs and lorises belong to the suborder Strepsirrhini (or Prosimii), often referred to as prosimians or 'pre-monkeys' [t3][t7]. They are characterized by primitive primate features such as a greater reliance on olfaction, wet noses (rhinariums), and specialized dental combs [t9][t10]. In contrast, other options belong to different mammalian groups: Kangaroos and Koalas are marsupials (pouched mammals) primarily found in the Australian region [c1][c4][c5]. Giraffes and Zebras are large ungulates (hoofed mammals) typically found in savanna environments [c2]. Rabbits and hares belong to the order Lagomorpha. Therefore, only lemurs and lorises are classified within the primate order [t5].
Sources
- [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/colobus
- [2] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 12: Animal Diversity of India > L?..3,2, Marsupials > p. 190
- [3] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 4: BIODIVERSITY > x) not evaluated (ne) > p. 16