Hapalidae

/ˌhæp.əˈleɪ.di/ noun

Definition

The family of small South American primates commonly called marmosets and tamarins, characterized by their tiny size and claws rather than nails.

Etymology

Scientific Latin family name from Greek 'hapalos' (soft, tender) plus Latin '-idae' (family suffix), referring to the delicate nature of these small primates.

Kelly Says

Marmosets are so tiny that mothers often give birth to twins and the father does most of the childcare—naming them 'soft-tender' animals was perfect because they're among the most fragile primates.

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