WILD CALLITHRIX GROUPS - STABLE EXTENDED FAMILIES

Data from field studies of three Callithrix species, C. flaviceps, C. intermedia, and C. jacchus, are considered in an attempt to characteri ze group dynamics in this genus. The three groups considered in detail contrast significantly in many behavioral (mating system, ranging beh avior, activity patterns) and ecological (zoogeography, habitat, diet) variables. Despite this, all three groups are highly similar in a num ber of characteristics, including relatively large size, high reproduc tive output, and low rates of migration. The evidence suggests that Ca llithrix groups may frequently encompass three generations and are cha racterized by a high degree of both stability and relatedness between group members. (C) 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.