Primate Comparisons

1. Primate Comparisons Measurements

2. Brain Case Size • Use the calipers to measure the brain case • Each end should be placed on the temples of the skull • If this equipment is not available, use a tape measure instead

3. Position of Brain - Top or Behind • The brain may be either at the top of the head or behind the eyes • Observe the skull to determine which option is correct for your sample

4. Legs – Two or Four • Turn the skull upside down to observe the opening for the spinal chord • If it is on the bottom, it is two legs • If it is at the back, it is four legs

5. Forehead or Brow Ridge • Brow ridges are bones that extend out above the eye sockets and form a ridge that can easily be seen • If this does not exist, the animal has a forehead instead

6. Canine Size • Measure the canines of the skull from top to bottom, not side to side • Locate the canines by counting teeth from the center

7. Face – Flat or Protruding • A flat face has no bones that protrude out – remember, a nose is made of cartilage, as is your chin • A protruding face has jawbones and teeth that come forward instead of being flat

8. Picture Resources • Brain Case Size: http://photos2.fotosearch.com/bthumb/ULY/ULY027/u27522568.jpg • Brain Position: http://www.azdrybones.com/primates.htm • Legs: http://anthro.palomar.edu/earlyprimates/images/foramen_magnum.gif • Browridge: http://readingevolution.com/images/skulls.jpg • Canine Size: http://www.vanillajoy.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/baby-teeth.jpg • Face: http://etc.usf.edu/clipart/77900/77901/77901_ogtn_skull_lg.gif