Callithrix aurita
white-eared marmoset

Callithrix aurita is endemic to the Atlantic forest of south-east Brazil. They occupy the montane forests of south-east Brazil in the southern part ofMinas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and the east and north-eastao Paulo. They are the most southern distributed species in the Callithrix. (Hershkovitz 1977, Rylands 1993)

Callithrix aurita live in subtropical forests at elevation between 400 to 500m. They use all parts of the forest. They seem to prefer to forage below 5 meters. They don't come down to the ground unless they are feeding. (Muskin 1984)

The body of Callithix aurita is mostly black. The tail is black annulated with black and gray. There are white spots on the forehead. The most distinguishing character is the extremely long white hair coming out of the ears. The lower incisors are small compared to other Callithrix because this species does not use its incisors to obtain plant exudates by perforating tree bark. Their body size is small. (Hershkovitz 19977, Muskin 1984, Natori et al 1992)

Callithrix aurita forms social groups. Individuals can join or leave social groups when they please. Because of their fur coloration and small in size, they are very agile and hard to detect and observe. (Muskin 1984)

Callithrix aurita is primarily insectivorous. Their diet includes ants, termites, larvae, caterpillars, insect galls, and large-winged insects. This particular marmoset species does not feed on plant exudates as all other closely related marmoset species do. (Muskin 1984)

Callithrix aurita are captured as pets. They are prized by some Europeans. (Hershkovitz 1977)

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