Sexual Dimorphism of the Pelvic Bone and Limbs of Francolinus bicalcaratus

Abstract

Introduction: The Double-spurred francolin (Francolinus bicalcaratus) also known as African Bush Fowl, is a popular bird found in all the geological zones of West Africa. The bird is closely related to galliformes like jungle fowls and cortunix feeding on insects, seeds and vegetable matter. We investigated the pelvic and long bones in Francolinus bicalcaratus to determine the differetianting features as well as the depth of sexual dimorphism in these bones. Methods: Skeleton from five males and five females Francolinus bicalcaratus were acquired using standard evisceration methods. Linear parameters were measured using a Digital Vernier Caliper (Neiko® China, sensitivity of 0.01mm,). A Protractor was used to determine the angles. All morphometric data obtained were subjected to one-way analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at a p <0.05. Results: The two foramina in the male pelvic bone had higher mean values compared to the female, but the acetabulum was non-significantly wider in the female The adult male birds bore two tibio-tarsal spurs. The first (closer to the distal end of the bone) was longer than the second. The mean values of pelvic bone parameters were wider in female than male except for the pelvic length, and pubic bone length. The femur, tibiotarsal and tarsometatarsal length of male was not significantly wider relative to female. The male had longer femur but the female epiphyseal ends of the bone were wider in mean values. The male also had a significantly higher greater trochanter compared to the female. The tarsometatarsal bone that bore the spurs in male was also longer than in female. In the female, the epiphyseal end is wider but with no significant variant (p>0.05) compared to the male epiphyseal end. Significance: The observations made in the course of this study will provide baseline data and other foundational information relevant to the conservation of this animal.