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Primate Taxonomy

Page 9

9) Good grasping ability requires hands with long digits, and in many species, an opposable thumb. Primates have forelimbs that are specially adapted to grasping and holding objects -- a good example is the human hand. This langur shows that some primates have a mobile big toe, which serves the same function on the foot as our thumb. A dark colored monkey extends the right foot (in foreground). Note position of toe.
Notes: A dark colored monkey extends the right foot (in foreground). Note position of toe.
Scientific name: Presbytis cristata (silvered langur)
langur -- LANG-grr
Primates usually have long fingers with an expanded area of sensitive skin at the fingertips. Many have an opposable thumb or big toe. Have students look at their own hands to observe the primate pattern.
Photo © by: Irwin Bernstein

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