The Skin of Primates. XLI. The Skin of the Silver Marmoset—Callithrix (Mico) Argentata

The study of the skin of the silver marmoset, Callithrix argentata, revealed several unique features. The epidermis and dermis were notably thin and lacked melanotic melanocytes. The skin displayed specialized structures, such as keratinized spines on the corpus penis and papillary nerve end-organs on volar surfaces. The face, ears, and anogenital region had a distinct red color due to a highly vascular dermis and subcutaneous fat. Hair growth occurred in sets of 3 to 5 follicles, with alkaline phosphatase-positive cells present in hair regions. Sebaceous glands were large and contributed to the white color of the scrotal skin. Apocrine sweat glands were reduced in the head but present with each hair follicle in specific areas, while eccrine sweat glands were limited to volar surfaces.