RECOGNITION OF MATE AND SPECIATION IN MARMOSET GENUS <em>CALLITHRIX</em> (PRIMATES, CEBIDAE, CALLITHRIQUINAE)

Abstract

Recognition of mate and speciation in marmoset genus Callithrix
(Primates, Cebidae, Callithriquinae). Recognition of potential mates as member of the same species in Callithrix, is based on the information transmitted by visual signals received by members of the resident couple (evaluator) from the intruder (cuebearer).
The different head color patterns observed in marmosets are here interpreted as responsible for reproductive isolation mechanisms. We compared the answer (action component) of members of resident couples before intruders in 4 species, Callithrix kuhli, C. penicillata, C. jacchus, and C. geoffroyi. The frequency of tuft-flicking and genital display behaviors as action components was recorded during confrontations and interpreted as levels of recognition of co-specific animals. Intruders of the same species of resident animals (evaluators), potentially sexual competitors, stimulated more responses (action) than did intruders of different species bearing different facial color patterns. The frequency of responses depended of the pair of species considered.

Key Words: Callithrix, head color pattern, reproductive isolation mechanisms,
speciation.