Neotropical Primates

Description

Understanding neotropical primates: diversity, distribution, and conservation

Neotropical Primates is the first illustrated reference guide to comprehensively cover all 217 species of primates found in the Neotropics—the vast tropical regions of Central and South America and parts of southern Mexico. Combining the latest scientific knowledge with over 160 high-quality photographs, this volume presents an authoritative and accessible overview of a fascinating and ecologically vital group of mammals.

The Neotropics host an exceptional diversity of primates, ranging from tiny mouse lemurs to the large and powerful howler monkeys. This book compiles detailed information on each species’ morphology, behavior, geographic distribution, and conservation status, offering a valuable tool for field researchers, conservationists, educators, and anyone passionate about wildlife in Latin America.

The guide includes all native primate species and subspecies of the Neotropics, as well as three African species that have been introduced and are now feral on several Caribbean islands, including Barbados, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, Grenada, Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten, and Anguilla.

The book begins with an introductory section that situates neotropical primates within the broader context of primate evolution, taxonomy, and systematics. It explains what makes this group unique and how they contribute to the global picture of primate biodiversity. Additional chapters address key issues such as habitat fragmentation, hunting pressure, the pet trade, and the protection of primate populations in increasingly threatened ecosystems.

Each of the 217 species is represented with a succinct fact sheet that includes key identification features, habitat preferences, elevation range, distribution map, and IUCN Red List status. Taxonomic updates are based on the most recent versions of the Mammal Diversity Database and the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, ensuring that this guide reflects current classifications and conservation concerns.

Key features of Neotropical Primates

• The only complete illustrated guide to all 217 species of neotropical primates.
• Covers primates from Mexico, Central America, and all regions of South America.
• Includes introduced species now naturalized on Caribbean islands.
• Updated taxonomy based on the Mammal Diversity Database and IUCN Red List.
• Each species account includes full-color photos, distribution maps, habitat data, and conservation status.
• Common names are provided in Spanish, Portuguese, French, Sranan Tongo, and a local Guyanese language, offering broad accessibility across the region.
• Introductory chapters cover primate evolution, habitats, threats, and conservation strategies.
• Provides a reliable and user-friendly resource for students, researchers, and wildlife professionals.
• Includes a comprehensive bibliography for further reading and research.

The visual quality of the book stands out. With more than 160 carefully curated photographs taken by top wildlife photographers and field researchers, Neotropical Primates not only informs but also inspires. The images highlight key identification features and offer glimpses into the lives of these charismatic animals—from the vibrant red face of the bald uakari to the cryptic patterns of night monkeys.

Another standout aspect of this volume is its geographic coverage. While many field guides or checklists focus only on one country or region, this book spans the entire Neotropical realm, offering an unparalleled look at primate diversity across ecosystems as varied as the Amazon rainforest, the Pantanal, the Andean foothills, and the Atlantic Forest.

Beyond identification, this guide has a strong conservation focus. Each species account includes the most recent IUCN assessment, helping readers understand the scale of threats and conservation urgency for each taxon. The introductory chapters also provide an overview of major conservation challenges and efforts underway, including protected area expansion, community engagement, and long-term monitoring programs.

Whether you’re a field biologist preparing for surveys in the Amazon, a student of primatology, a naturalist with a passion for the tropics, or simply looking to learn more about the world’s monkeys, Neotropical Primates offers the most up-to-date and visually compelling resource available.

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