Primate Anatomy: Introduction to Extant Primates

Primate Anatomy: Introduction to Extant Primates synthesizes the taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, and genomics of extant primates, including humans. It takes a holistic approach to describing primate skeletal, muscular, and organ structure and function, providing the tools to understanding the fundamentals and state of the science of primatology. Now in its fourth edition, this work introduces its audience to the history and objectives of the field of primatology. It enumerates and profiles extant primates before delving into detailed descriptions of primate skulls, brains, teeth, skeletons, musculature, organs, blood groups, reproduction, and development.

In addition, the book highlights recent advances in primate genomics, including new genera and species assignments, and concludes with a glance at the future of the field. Written by longtime expert Friderun Ankel-Simons, this new edition effectively introduces complex biological concepts in a manner accessible to all readers. It will serve as an excellent reference for technical and non-technical audiences, including primatologists, anatomists, paleontologists, anthropologists, conservationists, and naturalists.

• Offers holistic coverage of the anatomy and physiology of extant primates
• Highlights taxonomic developments since the publication of the third edition of Primate Anatomy, including new genera and species assignments
• Introduces primate genomics and gender issues among primates
• Provides instructive and comprehensive review tables
• Includes many unique, novel, and easily understandable illustrations

Dr. Friderun Ankel-Simons is Retired Adjunct Associate Professor in Duke University’s Department of Evolutionary Anthropology. She has been a distinguished professor of Human and Primate Biology, Anatomy, Osteology, Histology, Genetics, Behavior, and Anthropology at the Universities of Giessen, Copenhagen, Zurich, Kiel, Brown, Yale, North Carolina, and Duke. She obtained her Doctorate of Natural Sciences (DSc) from the University of Giessen, Germany. Her research interests include primate anatomy, morphology, locomotion, genetics and genomics, behavior, and conservation. She has written three prior editions of Primate Anatomy.