- Source: Dwarf lemur
The dwarf lemurs are the lemurs of the genus Cheirogaleus. All of the species in this genus, like all other lemurs, are native to Madagascar.
Description
Measuring 19–27 cm in body length with a tail about 16–17 cm, they are larger than the mouse lemur but smaller than the gentle lemur. Their heads are globular compared to the fox-like heads of the lemurs, but their muzzles are more pointed than those of the hapalemurs. Their hind limbs are slightly longer than their forelimbs, but not as elongated as in lepilemurs or indriids. Dwarf lemurs have an intermembral index of 71 on average. In contrast to most other primates, their grip is similar to that of South American monkeys with objects picked up and branches grasped between the second and third fingers, rather than between the thumb and index finger. Their nails are somewhat keeled and pointed.
Dwarf lemurs roam the lower strata of the foliage in the coastal forests of eastern Madagascar. They are nocturnal and quadrupeds. They have a period of inactivity (torpor) during the winter season lasting between four and five months. Their tail serves as an area for fat storage, most of which is consumed during periods of food scarcity. Like most nocturnal prosimians, dwarf lemurs are reported as living solitary or in pairs. They nest in tree holes where they often sleep together in curled up positions. Their territories are marked by fecal and scent markings. Their diet consists primarily of fruits and flowers and they seem to play a part in the pollination of certain plants.
Classification
As of 2022, 10 species are known.
Genus Cheirogaleus: dwarf lemurs
Montagne d'Ambre dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus andysabini
Furry-eared dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus crossleyi
Groves' dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus grovesi
Lavasoa dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus lavasoensis
Greater dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus major
Fat-tailed dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus medius
Lesser iron-gray dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus minusculus
Ankarana dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus shethi
Sibree's dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus sibreei
Thomas' dwarf lemur, Cheirogaleus thomasi
See also
List of lemur species
List of mammals of Madagascar