Abstract
The comparative morphological analysis of the subcutaneous muscle (m. cutaneus trunci) was performed in eight representatives of the family Mustelidae (Mustela altaica, M. nivalis, M. eversmanii, M. lutreola, M. sibirica, M. erminea, Neovison vison, Martes martes). In all examined species of Mustela except for the stoat M. erminea, and American mink Neovison vison, a part of the subcutaneous muscle fibers is inserted on the superficial fascia of the brachial area, forming the portio brachialis. The peculiarities of the subcutaneous muscle in M. erminea correlate with available morphological and molecular data, which testify its basal state in a group of Palaearctic species of Mustela. Identical structure of the m. cutaneous trunci in the studied species of Mustela (except for M. erminea), and N. vison, which belong to different phylogenetic lines, suggests independent development of the portio brachialis in these lines.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
