Abstract
A model of the earliest platyrrhine primate is generated as the result of a cladistic analysis of platyrrhine relationships. The morphological features of the postcranium hypothesized as present in this model are analyzed in order to suggest the adaptations and behavioral repertoire of the first platyrrhine. A consistent pattern emerges indicating a grasping, arboreal quadruped, emphasizing walking and running on horizontal supports with only limited leaping or suspensory activities, approximately 1000 g in body mass. It is suggested that this pattern, with only minor changes, also characterized the earliest euprimates. The major derivations in the first platyrrhines were increased body size from a smaller euprimate ancestor, and improvements in stability as arboreal quadrupeds. The fossil record indicates that platyrrhines evolved as a distinct group before reaching South America, with possible relatives remaining behind in Africa.
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