How do members of the family Callitrichidae access tree sap and gum for their diet?
Using specialized lower incisor teeth that act like chisels.
The family *Callitrichidae*, which includes tamarins and marmosets, exhibits a highly specialized dietary adaptation critical for accessing tree exudates like gum and sap. This process relies on modifications to their dentition, specifically the lower incisor teeth. These teeth are structured to function effectively as chisels, allowing the small primates to actively gnaw or gouge small holes into the tree bark. This behavior grants them access to the energy-rich, sticky substance within, providing a steady caloric source independent of the seasonal availability of ripe fruits. This specialized tooth structure is a key element that defines their unique foraging strategy within the broader New World monkey group.
