Callithrix jacchus

**Semantic type:** Mammal

**Definition:** The common marmoset, Callithrix jacchus, is a small primate characterized by a hairless face with a white mark on the forehead and is covered in grey fur with white tufts of hair surrounding its ears. This primate has a life span of 10 years in the wild and 16 years in captivity. The marmoset has claws instead of nails and walks on all four legs. Fully mature 20-24 month old females typically give birth to twins after a 150 day gestational period. The marmoset is genetically similar to humans and is a useful model for studying human diseases such as Lassa fever, multiple sclerosis, and viral infections.

**Synonyms:** - CALLITHRIX JACCHUS - Callithrix jacchus jacchus - Common Marmoset - Cotton-eared Marmoset - MARMOSET - White-Ear-Tufted Marmoset