Final answer:
Prosimians are primitive nocturnal primates with characteristics such as small size, small brains, and large olfactory centers. They have opposable thumbs for grip and vary in traits across species, with tarsiers being carnivorous and sensitive to captivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristics of Prosimians
Prosimians are a group of primates that includes species such as the bush babies of Africa, the lemurs of Madagascar, and the lorises, pottos, and tarsiers of Southeast Asia. These primitive primates are typically smaller in size and have relatively smaller brains compared to their anthropoid relatives, such as monkeys and apes. Notable for their nocturnal habits, prosimians possess large olfactory centers in the brain, emphasizing their reliance on smell. However, their vision also plays a significant role, supported by characteristics like the postorbital bar around the eye socket. An interesting trait among them is the presence of five fingers, including an opposable thumb, which enhances their dexterity and allows for a gripping capability.
The prosimian known as the tarsier stands out due to its unique features, blurring the lines between prosimians and anthropoids. Tarsiers are classified within their own category under the Haplorhini primates, sharing the inability to synthesize their own Vitamin C. They possess extremely large eyes and exhibit carnivorous behavior, preying mainly on insects and small animals. Their sensitivity to stress and captivity distinguishes them further from other primates.
Overall, prosimians are important in understanding the early stages of primate evolution and provide insights into the development of sensory organs and dexterity in primates.