Pygmy marmosets
Cebuella pygmaea
Smallest monkey in the world
Pygmy marmosets are the smallest living true monkey in the world, hence, they have been given a genus of their own, Cebuella.
They are from South America and can be found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru living in small groups of 5-10 monkeys.
The family tree
Each family has one or two trees in it’s territory to provide all the gum they need. They have specially adapted teeth to allow them to chew small holes in tree bark to reach the gum and sap inside.
Quick facts
| Scientific name Cebuella pygmaea | Native to South America | Rainforest layer Understorey |
| Diet Tree gum, fruit, insects | Size Maximum length 14cm | Weight 120g |
| Lifespan 15 years | IUCN conservation status Least concern – learn more | CITES Appendix ii Trade restricted – learn more |
Concerns
Pygmies have become threatened in some areas due to habitat loss as a result of logging and livestock farming, as well as collection for the pet trade.