Pelvic and sacral size dimorphism and allometry in two predatory carnivores with different life histories and locomotory adaptations

Alexander Csanády,Peter Krišovský,Ladislav Hlôška

doi:10.3906/zoo-1803-44

Abstract

Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) of the wolf and the lynx was evaluated for 15 pelvic and sacral variables in 48 specimens from the Western Carpathians. Our data confirmed small male-biased SSD in the pelvic and sacral bones for both species. We suggest that this can be explained by the need for a compromise between requirements for locomotion and giving birth. We also confirmed that significant differences exist between the species in the size of the pelvic and sacral bones. We discuss our findings in light of the species? different life histories.

Highlights

IntroductionThe mammalian pelvis is formed from the fusion of three endochondral bones (ilium, ischium, and pubis) into the bilaterally paired hip bones (ossa coxae)
The mammalian pelvis is formed from the fusion of three endochondral bones into the bilaterally paired hip bones
Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) of the pelvis is a consequence of its differential role in male and female reproduction, as females are affected by bearing additional weight during pregnancy, and full-term fetuses pass through the female birth canal (Carrier et al, 2005; Schutz et al, 2009a, 2009b; Nganvongpanit et al, 2017; Matysiak et al, 2017)

Summary

Introduction

The mammalian pelvis is formed from the fusion of three endochondral bones (ilium, ischium, and pubis) into the bilaterally paired hip bones (ossa coxae). Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) of the pelvis is a consequence of its differential role in male and female reproduction, as females are affected by bearing additional weight during pregnancy, and full-term fetuses pass through the female birth canal (Carrier et al, 2005; Schutz et al, 2009a, 2009b; Nganvongpanit et al, 2017; Matysiak et al, 2017)

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