Primate features relatively large, complex brain. forward-facing eyes with overlapping fields of view that allow depth perception. eye sockets with a ring or cup of bone surrounding and supporting the eyes. grasping hands with long fingers to curl around objects.

The primates exhibit specific characteristics that distinguish them from less developed mammals. They include arboreal adaptation, big brains, heightened sense of vision, opposable thumbs, more flexibility in shoulder movements. The most commonly found species of primates are monkeys, apes, Gorillas.

Key Points. All primates are descended from tree-dwellers, exhibiting adaptations which allow for tree climbing that include: a rotating shoulder joint, separated big toes and thumb for grasping, and stereoscopic vision.

Primates are distinguished from other mammals by one or more of the following traits: unspecialized structure, specialized behaviour, a short muzzle, comparatively poor sense of smell, prehensile five-digit hands and feet possessing flat nails instead of claws, acute vision with depth perception due to forward-facing ...

larger body. smaller ears. elaborate social behavior. stereoscopic vision. complete orbit. larger brain. greater parental care.

Primate derived traits include opposable thumb and big toe, prehensile hands and feet, nails instead of claws on the digits, ability to sit for extended periods of time in an upright position without using the upper limbs for balance, reliance on vision, and reduced sense of smell.