The course deals with the various aspects of the evolution and phylogenesis of the primate order. Primate evolution is illustrated from their morphological characteristics, geographic distribution, ecological adaptation, and behaviour. The course presents aspects of their social system, reproductive strategies as well as cognition and the conservation of primates.
Fleagle J (1999). Primate adaptation and evolution. Academic Press, Londra
Strier KB (2006). Primate Behavioral Ecology (3rd Edition) by
Campbell CJ, Fuentes A, MacKinnon KC, Panger M (2006). Primates in Perspective
Learning Objectives
Knowledge acquired: Acquire a solid epistemological and cultural preparation in Primatology.
Competence acquired
Acquire useful techniques and methods for the understanding of Primatology from the, molecular, genetic and behavioral perspective. From the level of individuals, populations and species.
Skills acquired (at the end of the course):
The capacity to work in the field of Primatology in ample autonomy, as well as the capacity to work in groups while valorising ones own competence and that of others. The capacity to assume responsibility for projects in regards to primates evolution, ethology and conservation.
Teaching Methods
Total hours of the course (including the time spent in attending lectures, seminars, private study, examinations, etc...): 150
Hours reserved to private study and other indivual formative activities:102
Contact hours for: Lectures (hours): 48
Further information
Frequency of lectures, practice and lab:
4 hours of weekly lessons.
Teaching tools
Powerpoint presentations, Video clips and films of primate behavior.
Type of Assessment
Each student is evaluated by a final oral examination before specifically formed commissions
Course program
The course reconstructs with the comparative method the evolutionary tendencies and primary adaptations which characterize the Primate order: characteristics of the primates. Systematics of primates. Theories on the origins of primates. Differences in the classifications based on morphology, genetics and behavior. Distribution of primates. Physical structure of primates. Variability in body size. Anatomy including characteristics and diversity in the morphology of the skull and teeth of primates. The structure and dental formula and specific adaptations. Various types of locomotion and morphological adaptation. Parameters of the life history of primates. Characteristics of the various families and genera of primates. Information on paleoprimatology including ancestral primates, prosimians and anthropoids. Theories on the origins of New World and Old World monkeys including fossil catarrhines and hominoids. General tendencies in primate evolution. Basis of primate ethnology. Type of social and mating systems from solitary primates, monogamous couples, single male and multimale groups as well as fission/fusion. Sexual selection. Elements of behavioral ecology and conservation of the primates. Principle causes of extinction risks in the primates.