primates

Researchers determine that a primate’s tooth root, and not just its crown, can yield reliable information about body size, but the relationship between root surface area and diet isn’t as clear.

Researchers find that wild baboons are generally good at avoiding inbreeding, but that it’s more likely to occur with paternal than maternal relatives.

A research group argues that a species’ number of neurons, rather than brain volume, should serve as indicator of cognitive capacity when studying brain evolution, but some experts voice doubts.

The practice, which hasn’t been previously observed among nonhuman animals, may be a display of empathy. 

Researchers used sequencing data and phenotypic traits to predict which of 5,400 species were most likely to be susceptible to contracting and spreading the virus back to humans.

A study suggests that mutations in the gene that encodes the T1R1/T1R3 taste receptor allowed primates that relied on insects for protein to transition to eating leaves and fruit.

Zoo officials say the captive primates are recovering, but scientists worry the virus could spread quickly through dwindling wild populations.

A new fossil discovery indicates a second primate group also traversed the Atlantic millions of years ago on a raft of vegetation.

A study of tiny monkey skulls and teeth suggests that shrinking body size didn’t crowd out wisdom teeth during evolution.

The finding suggests corvids may have an innate sense of number.

The male proboscis monkey’s large nose probably evolved in response to female preference and competition between males.

A scientist confirms a new species of patas monkey in Ethiopia.

Optogenetic and chemogenetic tools illuminate brain and behavior connections in nonhuman primates.

Scientists think these apes switch to breastfeeding during periods of food scarcity.

Captive ape produces more than 500 vowel-like sounds, offering clues to how speech evolved in humans.

Instead of getting its start in Africa, humanity may have had more Continental roots. 

Meet some of the people featured in the December 2015 issue of The Scientist.

In Chapter 7, “West Side Story: The African Apes of Europe,” author David Begun describes the thrill of excavating ancient European primates.

August 2014's selection of notable quotes