Anatomical and Radiographic Study on the Skull and Mandible of the African Lion (Panthera leo)

Abstract

Objective The taxonomic affiliations can be detected via the skull morphology. The objective of this study was to give a detailed gross anatomical and radiographic description of the bones and foramina of the skull and mandible of the lion. This information could be used in the identification of the skull and mandible of the lion, which is of great importance in taxonomic affiliation and to help the zoo veterinarians to detect, diagnose, and treat head conditions. Materials and Methods The current work was conducted on two skulls and mandibles of lions. The skulls and mandible were prepared using standard boiling and maceration technique. The gross and radiographic photos of the bones and foramina of the skull and mandible were taken using a Kodak digital camera and Siemens mobile full wave X-ray machine (Siemens Medical Solutions, Erlangen, Germany). Results The skull of the lion comprised of facial and cranial parts. The nasal openings were large, and the bony orbit was incomplete. The supraorbital foramen was absent. The zygomatic arch was large. The frontal region had a deep longitudinal depression dorsally. The mandible was a paired bone with movable articulation, and it had strongly excavated masseteric fossa with a well-developed crest. The dental formula was 30 teeth consisting of small incisors, long canines and carnassial premolars. Conclusion The current study showed that the osteology and foramina of the skull and mandible of the lion were similar to those of other mammals. The information is important for taxonomic affiliation, and wildlife forensic as well as to help the zoo veterinarians to manage clinical head diseases in this species.