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Book 33, Question 102

Why do primates have fingernails instead of claws?

Most primates have flat nails on their fingers and toes instead of sharp claws.

The flat nails support the soft pads at the tips of their fingers, which are great for gripping branches and feeling things. They let primates hold small objects and peel fruit. Sharp claws would get in the way of delicate hand work.

Why I wrote this