Book 33, Question 102 · Video
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.
Read the full answer →Watch on YouTubeSee the series on Amazon
What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do primates have fingernails instead of claws?
The Big Idea
Primates have flat fingernails. Not sharp claws like cats! Why?
Flat Nails
Step one: Flat Nails. Most primates have flat nails on their fingers and toes instead of sharp claws. You have them too! Look at your own fingertips and you'll see.
Soft Pads
Step two: Soft Pads. The flat nails support the soft pads at the tips of their fingers. Those pads are great for gripping branches and feeling things.
Delicate Work
Step three: Delicate Work. Nails let primates hold small objects and peel fruit. Sharp claws would get in the way of such delicate hand work.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Flat. Soft. Grip. Peeled.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Primate fingertips have ridges that help them grip, like your fingerprints. You have flat nails too. Pads feel textures. Nails help peel fruit.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Color your fingertip with a washable marker. Press it on paper to make a fingerprint. Look at the ridges with a magnifying glass. Compare prints from different fingers. Wash your hands after.
Outro
Most primates have flat nails instead of claws. The nails support soft fingertip pads with ridges that are great for gripping branches and feeling things, so primates can hold small objects and peel fruit. Science is amazing! Keep wondering and keep exploring! Share what you learned with someone at home, and see what they think! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!