New developmental stages for common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) using mass and age variables obtained by K-means algorithm and self-organizing maps (SOM)

This study proposes new developmental stages for Callithrix jacchus, using K-Means algorithm and an artificial neural network–self-organising maps (SOM) as computational tools, based on weight and age. Eight developmental stages are proposed: Infant I, II and III, Juvenile I and II, Sub adult, Young adult and Older adult. This classification is consistent with the first appearance of several behavioural and physiological characteristics and thus may have generality in defining critical developmental periods. It also reveals differences in male and female development and establishes a stage for the onset of the final adult life cycle. This classification is also important to understanding the biology of the ontogenetic development of common marmosets, providing new insights for the management and care of captive animals and improving age estimate indicators when specimens are captured in long term monitoring of free ranging groups.