Suborder Prosimii is a taxonomic suborder within the order Primates that encompasses a group of mammalian primates commonly referred to as prosimians. It is derived from the Latin word "prosimius", meaning "most similar". Prosimii is considered an outdated term, with many species having been reclassified into other suborders or families, but is still used as a grouping for the purpose of evolutionary discussion and understanding.
Prosimians generally display primitive characteristics in comparison to other primates, such as having longer muzzles, lower brain-to-body size ratios, and a longer reproductive cycle. This suborder traditionally includes several groups such as lemurs, lorises, and tarsiers. These intriguing creatures are typically arboreal, with adaptations that allow them to live in various forested habitats around the world.
Lemurs, for example, are primates indigenous to Madagascar, showing a wide range of species diversity, including both small and mouse lemurs, as well as larger bamboo lemurs and sifakas. Their specialized adaptations allow them to fill various ecological niches, from being nocturnal insectivores to diurnal folivores. They have a grooming claw and a unique dental comb used for social bonding and feeding efficiency.
Tarsiers, on the other hand, are small, nocturnal primates found in Southeast Asia. Known for their large eyes and elongated fingers, they possess unique ankle adaptations that enable them to leap long distances. Lorises, another group, are slow-moving nocturnal or crepuscular primates found in tropical regions of Africa and Asia.
In summary, suborder Prosimii represents a diverse assemblage of primitive primates that includes lemurs, lorises, and tarsiers. While the term may
