Morphometric Variables Research Articles

A new nematode species, Tanqua siamensis sp. nov. (Nematoda: Gnathostomatidae) in the rainbow water snake, Enhydris enhydris, from Thailand.

The genus Tanqua Blanchard, 1904, infests reptiles, particularly those inhabiting aquatic environments. This study examined a population of rainbow water snakes, Enhydris enhydris (Schneider, 1799), collected from southern Thailand. Adult nematodes consistent with Tanqua were found in the stomach. Various morphometric, meristic and qualitative morphological variables, including size, ratios, distances, cephalic appearance, the number of caudal papillae and other features, serve to distinguish the specimens from other species within the genus. In particular, Tanqua anomala and Tanqua diadema, which closely resemble our Tanqua specimens, can be differentiated by key diagnostic characteristics such as a retractable head, the distance from the anterior end to the cervical sac, the relative positions of caudal papillae and excretory pore, and the length of the uterus. Molecular analysis (COI and 18s rRNA genes) confirmed its status as a species of Tanqua, genetically distinct from Tanqua tiara, and matching the genetic sequence found in larvae of Tanqua sp. from a snakehead fish species from Bangladesh. Tanqua siamensis sp. nov. is described, supported by morphological traits, microscopic illustrations and genetic information. This study reports the first evidence of a caudal papillary pair in females. This species causes significant lesions on the stomach wall of the snake host, raising possible issues for snakes held in captivity regarding food hygiene and parasite protection.

Pelage variation and morphometrics of closely related Callithrix marmoset species and their hybrids

BackgroundHybrids are expected to show greater phenotypic variation than their parental species, yet how hybrid phenotype expression varies with genetic distances in closely-related parental species remains surprisingly understudied. Here, we investigate pelage and morphometric trait variation in anthropogenic hybrids between four species of Brazilian Callithrix marmosets, a relatively recent primate radiation. Marmoset species are distinguishable by pelage phenotype and morphological specializations for eating tree exudates. In this work, we (1) describe qualitative phenotypic pelage differences between parental species and hybrids; (2) test whether significant quantitative differences exist between parental and hybrid morphometric phenotypes; and (3) determine which hybrid morphometic traits show heterosis, dysgenesis, trangression, or intermediacy relative to the parental trait. We investigated cranial and post-cranial morphometric traits, as most hybrid morphological studies focus on the former instead of the latter. Finally, we estimate mitogenomic distances between marmoset species from previously published data.ResultsMarmoset hybrid facial and overall body pelage variation reflected novel combinations of coloration and patterns present in parental species. In morphometric traits, C. jacchus and C. penicillata were the most similar, while C. aurita was the most distinct, and C. geoffroyi trait measures fell between these species. Only three traits in C. jacchus x C. penicillata hybrids showed heterosis. We observed heterosis and dysgenesis in several traits of C. penicillata x C. geoffroyi hybrids. Transgressive segregation was observed in hybrids of C. aurita and the other species. These hybrids were also C. aurita-like for a number of traits, including body length. Genetic distance was closest between C. jacchus and C. penicillata and farthest between C. aurita and the other species.ConclusionWe attributed significant morphometric differences between marmoset species to variable levels of morphological specialization for exudivory in these species. Our results suggest that intermediate or parental species-like hybrid traits relative to the parental trait values are more likely in crosses between species with relatively lesser genetic distance. More extreme phenotypic variation is more likely in parental species with greater genetic distance, with transgressive traits appearing in hybrids of the most genetically distant parental species. We further suggest that fewer developmental disturbances can be expected in hybrids of more recently diverged parental species, and that future studies of hybrid phenotypic variation should investigate selective pressures on Callithrix cranial and post-cranial morphological traits.

Morphological and Morphometric Variations of the Tympanic Bulla Between Domestic Shorthair and Brachycephalic Cats Utilizing Computed Tomography

Morphological and Morphometric Variations of the Tympanic Bulla Between Domestic Shorthair and Brachycephalic Cats Utilizing Computed Tomography

Comparing morphology and cranial osteology in two divergent clades of dice snakes from continental Europe (Squamata: Natricidae: Natrix tessellata)

Abstract The Western Palearctic harbours a diverse snake fauna, including numerous endemic species and yet unnamed clades, identified through molecular analyses. However, morphological characteristics of these clades, even of common species, often remain relatively unexplored. In this study, we provide an examination of the morphology and cranial anatomy of the semi-aquatic snake species Natrix tessellata (Laurenti, 1768), with a focus on populations of the so-called ‘Europe’ and ‘Greece’ clades. Utilising both museum collections and field data, we first morphologically examined 541 individuals of N. tessellata, categorising them according to previously established clades and lineages that resulted in relatively low morphometric and meristic variation across the species’ range. When assessing the 448 specimens from the ‘Europe’ and the ‘Greece’ clades separately, we similarly observed little variation in meristic characteristics. On the other hand, individuals of the ‘Greece’ clade displayed smaller and more slender body and head proportions compared to those of the ‘Europe’ clade and the pigmentation of the labial scales is distinctively paler in the ‘Greece’ clade, whereas the overall body colouration remains largely similar between the two. Our osteological analysis of 47 N. tessellata skulls also indicated slight differences in the frontoparietal portion of the braincase between the ‘Europe’ and the ‘Greece’ clades, warranting further examination with a larger dataset and extending to other skull components. These findings hold significance for ongoing enquiries into the species’ biogeography, morphology and ecological adaptations. In summary, the integration of morphological and osteological data with genetic information offers a promising avenue for potential taxonomic revisions of N. tessellata in the future.

Allometry and the distribution of fruit and seed traits across tropical plant species

AbstractFruit and seed morphometry was studied across 1070 plant species belonging to 140 families from 27 contrasting plant communities. The main objectives were to identify allometric relationships and describe the frequency distributions of the weights and sizes of fruits and seeds across plant species, regardless of any qualitative attribute or community type. The frequency distributions of 12 morphometric variables were then determined. Pearson correlations were used to describe associations between quantitative attributes and estimate the slopes of the lines (allometric coefficients) obtained. In general, small fruits and seeds (<1 cm) prevailed in the sample examined. The frequency distributions of the weight and size parameters of the fruits and seeds were bell‐shaped, with the exception of the number of seeds per fruit, which was skewed to the right. The highest allometric coefficients were found between the dry weights and sizes of the fruits and seeds, suggesting that these traits are mutually supporting. The cost of seed packaging per fruit, or the pericarp/seed ratio, tended to decrease with increasing investment in progeny, and the number of seeds per fruit decreased with an increase in seed weight. The significant associations between the fruit shape indexes and the morphometric attributes show that the shape of fruits is related to their size and weight. The highest allometric coefficients were found between the dry weights and sizes of the fruits and seeds. Fruit and seed size can predict their biomass and vice versa. There is a close relationship between fruit biomass values and their components (seeds and pericarp). Most species invest more biomass in pericarp (protection and dispersal) compared with the investment in progeny (seed per fruit). The sample examined could be influenced taxonomically along with selective pressures that favour the reproductive economy of the species and suggest that morphometric traits have evolved in coordination.

Effect of two amendments on seedling growth of two cashew varieties

Cashew, Anacardium occidentale L., is considered a promising crop for many regions in Colombia, requiring further research on new varieties and technologies. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two organic amendments on two cashew varieties under nursery conditions in Puerto Carreño, Vichada department. A factorial experiment (3 organic amendment treatments x 2 varieties) with 4 replications was conducted. The treatments for the first factor were: chicken manure (30%), bovine manure (30%), and no amendment. The varieties used were Yucao and Mapiria. Emergence, survival, and morphometric variables such as stem length, stem diameter, and number of leaves were evaluated, as well as disease incidence and severity. Results showed that seedling emergence and survival were more influenced by the addition of organic amendments than by varieties. Stem length of cashew seedlings was influenced by the addition of bovine and chicken manure and their interaction with the two varieties until week 7, while stem diameter was influenced until the end of the nursery cycle. Neither variety nor treatment influenced the number of leaves. Anthracnose was primarily influenced by the variety factor, with Mapiria being more susceptible to both disease incidence and severity. Overall, both organic amendments had a significant effect on the development of cashew seedlings in both varieties studied.

Morphometric analysis of monogenetic volcanoes in the Garrotxa Volcanic Field, Iberian Peninsula

The Garrotxa Volcanic Field is situated in the northeast region of the Iberian Peninsula. It represents the most recent volcanic area within the Catalan Volcanic Zone, which is one of the volcanic provinces of the European Rift System, featuring over 50 dispersed eruptive vents.This study presents a comprehensive morphometric analysis of volcanic edifices, aiming to enhance our understanding of both volcanostratigraphy and the geomorphology of landforms within the Garrotxa Volcanic Field. Our methodology involved extensive fieldwork and detailed analysis of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) to precisely determine the spatial distribution and morphometric parameters of the best-preserved volcanic structures in the area. The Garrotxa Volcanic Field exhibits an uneven spatial distribution of various volcanic landforms, with approximately 50 % comprising magmatic cones, primarily formed through Strombolian eruptions. The remaining 50 % is evenly divided between magmatic-phreatomagmatic volcanoes and phreatomagmatic tuff rings-maars. The morphometric characteristics of the three genetic types overlap significantly, showing no clear differences, although a few distinctions can sometimes be identified.The Garrotxa Volcanic Field displays a variety of eruption styles: 46 % of the identified eruptive sequences begin with phreatomagmatic activity, while 54 % start with predominantly magmatic explosive activity. Most eruptions show a transition through different phases.Data also indicate that the morphometric variability at the Garrotxa Volcanic Field stems from differences in the properties of pyroclastic sequences, resulting from their diverse eruption styles, as well as pre- and post-eruptive factors. Consequently, the results of the morphometric analysis are deemed insufficient for establishing a reliable chronology for the Garrotxa Volcanic Field.

Genetic and morphometric variation in populations of Partamona cupira and Partamona mulata, stingless bees endemic to the Cerrado biome in Brazil

Genetic and morphometric variation in populations of <i>Partamona cupira</i> and <i>Partamona mulata</i>, stingless bees endemic to the <i>Cerrado</i> biome in Brazil

Effect of protein supplementation during the second third of gestation of ewes grazing natural pastures on placental and morphometric variables of their progeny

Effect of protein supplementation during the second third of gestation of ewes grazing natural pastures on placental and morphometric variables of their progeny

Nutraceutical Additives Modulate Microbiota and Gut Health in Post-Weaned Piglets.

Due to the challenge of weaning pigs and the need to reduce the use of antimicrobials in animal feed, there is a growing need to look for nutraceutical alternatives to reduce the adverse effects of the post-weaning period. We evaluate the effect of different feed nutraceutical additives on the microbial communities, gut health biomarkers, and productivity of pigs during the post-weaning period. The study involved 240 piglets weaned on the 21st day of age and randomized to six different diets: D1-BD commercial standard feed, D2-AGP: D1 + 150 ppm zinc bacitracin, D3-MD: D1 + 550 ppm maltodextrin, D4-FOS: D1 + 300 ppm fructo-oligosaccharides, D5-EO: D1 + 70 ppm Lippia origanoides essential oil, and D6-SH: D1 + 750 ppm sodium humate. On day 30 post-weaning, zootechnical parameters were evaluated, and jejunal samples were taken to obtain morphometric variables, expression of barrier and enzymatic proteins, and analysis of microbial communities. Animals fed D4-FOS and D5-EO had the lowest feed conversion ratio and higher expression of barrier and enzymatic proteins compared to D1-BD, D2-AGP, and D3-MD. The use of the additives modified the gut microbial communities of the piglets. In conclusion, fructo-oligosaccharides and Lippia origanoides essential oil were the best alternatives to zinc bacitracin as antibiotic growth promoters.

EVALUATION OF PLANTAR FASCIA THICKNESS ACCORDING TO THE MORPHOMETRIC OF THE FOOT

OBJECTIVE: In our study, it was aimed to examine the relationship among plantar fascia thickness, foot morphometric values, and Achilles tendon thickness. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was carried out on young volunteers who did not engage in any active regular sports. In total, morphometric measurements were performed on 64 feet (17 men, 15 women). The thickness of the plantar fascia on the ultrasound image was measured. Foot length, foot width, heel width, and ankle circumference were used as foot morphometric variables. RESULTS: It was determined that the plantar fascia thickness was greater than 4 mm in 14.7% of young healthy male individuals. The plantar fascia thickness was found to be less than 3.6 mm in all young female individuals. In men, plantar fascia thickness was found to be moderately positively correlated with foot length and ankle circumference (p&amp;lt;0.05). However, it was interesting that there was no correlation between plantar fascia thickness and foot width. When all the participants were evaluated together, a moderate positive correlation was found between plantar fascia thickness and foot length, ankle circumference, and Achilles tendon thickness, while a weak correlation was found with foot width and heel diameter (p&amp;lt;0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The addition of foot morphometry and plantar fascia data to the literature, depending on different racial and geographical conditions, allows anatomists and anthropologists to make necessary comparisons. To support the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis, the accepted “plantar fascia thickness greater than 4 mm” should be reviewed and discussed separately for both men and women.

Genomic patterns of selection in morphometric traits across diverse Indian cattle breeds.

This study seeks a comprehensive exploration of genome-wide selective processes impacting morphometric traits across diverse cattle breeds, utilizing an array of statistical methods. Morphometric traits, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative variables, play a pivotal role in characterizing and selecting livestock breeds based on their external appearance, size, and physical attributes. While qualitative traits, such as color, horn structure, and coat type, contribute to adaptive features and breed identification, quantitative traits like body weight and conformation measurements bear a closer correlation with production characteristics. This study employs advanced genotyping technologies, including the Illumina BovineSNP50 Bead Chip and next-generation sequencing methods like Reduced Representation sequencing, to identify genomic signatures associated with these traits. We applied four intra-population methods to find evidence of selection, such as Tajima's D, CLR, iHS, and ROH. We found a total of 40 genes under the selection signature, that were associated with morphometric traits in five cattle breeds (Kankrej, Tharparkar, Nelore, Sahiwal, and Gir). Crucial genes such as ADIPDQ, DPP6, INSIG1, SLC35D2 in Kankrej, LPL, ATP6V1B2, CDC14B in Tharparkar, HPSE2, PLAG1 in Nelore, PCSK1, PRKD1 in Sahiwal, and GNAQ, HPCAL1 in Gir were identified in our study. This approach provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of variations in body weight and conformation traits, facilitating informed selection processes and offering a deeper understanding of the evolutionary and domestication processes in diverse cattle breeds.

Morphological and Anatomical Differentiation of Potamogeton gramineus in Relation to the Presence of Invasive Species Elodea nuttallii: A Case Study from Vlasina Lake, Serbia.

Elodea nuttallii represents non-native and highly invasive species in Europe that significantly influence freshwater plant communities by decreasing the diversity of native species. This study aimed to determine whether the morphological and anatomical features of Potamogeton gramineus, a native species in Vlasina Lake, differ between sites where it coexists with E. nuttallii and those where E. nuttallii is not present. Environmental variables such as water depth, temperature, pH, conductivity, saturation, and O2 concentration were included in the analysis. Analyses were conducted on 32 morphological and anatomical features of P. gramineus collected from six sites within Vlasina Lake, comprising three sites where E. nuttallii was present and three sites where it was absent. The datasets containing morphometric and environmental variables underwent analysis using standard univariate techniques (Descriptive, ANOVA), Tukey's Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test, Student's t-test, and the Mann-Whitney U test, as well as multivariate statistical methods such as Canonical Discriminant Analysis (CDA). The results show the presence of morphological differentiation among P. gramineus individuals across the analyzed sites. These findings suggest that morphological and anatomical features, such as epidermis, mesophyll, palisade, and aerenchyma tissue thickness in floating leaves, number, length, width, and the surface area of stomata, as well as the width of submersed leaves and stem aerenchyma tissue thickness, effectively differentiate individuals that coexist with E. nuttallii and individuals that growth without its presence. Moreover, they indicate that P. gramineus exhibits a notable ability to modify its morphological traits in response to invasion.

The causal relationship between human brain morphometry and knee osteoarthritis: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study.

Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent and debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide, yet its underlying etiology remains poorly understood. Recent advances in neuroimaging and genetic methodologies offer new avenues to explore the potential neuropsychological contributions to KOA. This study aims to investigate the causal relationships between brain-wide morphometric variations and KOA using a genetic epidemiology approach. Leveraging data from 36,778 UK Biobank participants for human brain morphometry and 487,411 UK Biobank participants for KOA, this research employed a two-sample Mendelian Randomization (TSMR) approach to explore the causal effects of 83 brain-wide volumes on KOA. The primary method of analysis was the Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW) and Wald Ratio (WR) method, complemented by MR Egger and IVW methods for heterogeneity and pleiotropy assessments. A significance threshold of p < 0.05 was set to determine causality. The analysis results were assessed for heterogeneity using the MR Egger and IVW methods. Brain-wide volumes with Q_pval < 0.05 were considered indicative of heterogeneity. The MR Egger method was employed to evaluate the pleiotropy of the analysis results, with brain-wide volumes having a p-value < 0.05 considered suggestive of pleiotropy. Our findings revealed significant causal associations between KOA and eight brain-wide volumes: Left parahippocampal volume, Right posterior cingulate volume, Left transverse temporal volume, Left caudal anterior cingulate volume, Right paracentral volume, Left paracentral volume, Right lateral orbitofrontal volume, and Left superior temporal volume. These associations remained robust after tests for heterogeneity and pleiotropy, underscoring their potential role in the pathogenesis of KOA. This study provides novel evidence of the causal relationships between specific brain morphometries and KOA, suggesting that neuroanatomical variations might contribute to the risk and development of KOA. These findings pave the way for further research into the neurobiological mechanisms underlying KOA and may eventually lead to the development of new intervention strategies targeting these neuropsychological pathways.

Three-dimensional morphometric and volumetric analysis of maxillary sinuses.

The maxillary sinus is a pyramid-shaped cavity with varying shapes, sizes, and capacities. Its dimensions grow gradually and develop until early adulthood. Anatomical knowledge of the maxillary sinus is essential to understanding sinonasal disorders, planning surgical procedures and preventing complications. Awareness of the sinus's proximity to critical structures helps avoid injuries during surgery. The European, Korean, and Sri Lankan population study parameters show varying results and do not necessarily apply to the Indian population. The standard morphometric data of the maxillary sinus is scanty in the Indian population. The study aimed to determine the volume and morphometry of the maxillary sinus along with gender differences in the Eastern population of the Indian. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using cone beam computed tomography data of maxillary sinuses of 100 normal individuals. The data were analysed after the three-dimensional reconstruction of digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICOM) images with the help of DICOM to print and Geomagic freeform software in the Anatomy department. The different linear morphometric variables and volume of the maxillary sinus were studied. SPSS version 27.0. was utilised for statistical analyses. The mean values of Antero-posterior diameter, Transverse diameter, Craniocaudal diameters, the height of ostium from the floor and volume of the maxillary sinus in males on the right side are 36.61 mm, 20.7 mm, 40.31 mm, 26.02 mm and 16055.24 mm³ and on the left side are 37.17 mm, 20.17 mm, 40.73 mm, 26.91 mm and 15712.66 mm³ whereas in females the values on the right side are 38.10 mm, 21.56 mm, 38.96 mm, 25.81 mm and 14687.78 mm³ and on left side are 38.23 mm, 21.53 mm, 38.48 mm, 25.28 mm and 14203.13 mm3 respectively. The side-to-side parameter differences were non-significant within the male and female groups, respectively. The females had significantly (p < 0.05) larger transverse diameters than males in both the right and left maxillary sinuses. The males tend to have a slightly larger mean craniocaudal diameter than females, but the difference was found statistically significant (p < 0.05) only in the left maxillary sinus. The gender differentiation based on the measured parameters of bilateral maxillary sinus accuracy rate was 89.4% in males and 61.8% in females. These parameters serve as a standard or reference point, allowing radiologists and surgeons to compare individual patient scans to population averages and aid in better clinical outcomes. The mean values of different parameters of the maxillary sinus may be utilised to differentiate various suspected sinus pathologies, which is helpful for functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Gender differentiation can be done more accurately by forensic experts using Maxillary sinus transverse diameter bilaterally, followed by craniocaudal diameter of the left side sinus for predicting the gender of an unknown maxilla.

Morphometric Variation in the Red-Cheeked Mud Turtle (Kinosternon cruentatum) and its Taxonomic Implications

Morphometric Variation in the Red-Cheeked Mud Turtle (Kinosternon cruentatum) and its Taxonomic Implications

Lower Campanian calcareous nannofossils: Morphometry and palaeoenvironmental implications of the Aspidolithus group (Rhenodanubian Flysch Zone, Austria)

Our calcareous nannofossil study focused on eleven samples from the lower Campanian (UC14a–UC14b) of the Loibichl section, located in the Rhenodanubian Flysch Zone of the Austrian Alps. Relative counts of calcareous nannofossil assemblages were followed by a morphometrical analysis on 1021 specimens belonging to the Aspidolithus genus (Aspidolithus enormis and Aspidolithus parcus). For this analysis, a light microscope was utilized to improve our understanding of the taxonomic concepts of this group during a phase of rapid morphological evolution. The analysis included the maximum length (L), the width of the outer rim versus the small diameter of the central area (b/a), and the number of perforations in the central area. The CaCO3 content and bulk carbonate stable isotope ratios of δ13C and δ18O were analysed to facilitate stratigraphic and palaeoecological interpretations. Additionally, this study was to determine whether variations in nannofossil morphometrics were driven by changing palaeoenvironmental conditions. This study identified five morphotypes: A. enormis subsp. 1, A. enormis subsp. 2, A. parcus expansus, A. parcus parcus, and A. parcus constrictus. The morphometric analysis substantiated the differentiation between “small” morphotypes (L < 8.5 μm; A. enormis) and the “large” A. parcus group (L > 8.5 μm). However, the results did not show any significant patterns that would justify a natural separation of the “subspecies” within the A. enormis and A. parcus group. Our statistical analysis suggests that these morphometric changes may be related to various palaeoenvironmental proxies. Further high-resolution morphometric analysis is required to verify the impact of contrasting environmental factors on Aspidolithus-size variation.

Morphological and genetic diversity of Eichwald Toad, Bufo eichwaldi in marginal populations of the east and west Caspian Sea lowland

The Eichwald Toad, Bufo eichwaldi is one of the endemic amphibians distributed throughout Hyrcanian forests, marshes, wetlands, and streams in the north of Iran and the south of Azerbaijan. Populations of B. eichwaldi have previously been studied based on a few molecular and morphological data. Here, we undertake taxonomic and phylogenetic analyses based on morphological and morphometric features for 56 specimens of B. eichwaldi from Iran, and mitochondrial cyt b marker for 20 specimens from the whole species range in the west and east Caspian Sea lowland. Molecular analyses based on 794 bp of cyt b gene demonstrated two clusters: the east Caspian Sea lowland (A1) and the west Caspian Sea lowland (A2) clusters. Univariate analyses indicated six out of 25 morphometric variables in male B. eichwaldi specimens from the east (A1) are significantly different from male specimens of B. eichwaldi from the west Caspian Sea (A2; P≤0.05). Females have been also significantly different between two clusters in one character (distance between lids; P≤0.05). Sexual size dimorphism was also significantly different within and between populations in some variables. However, the PCA analyses show no differentiation among B. eichwaldi populations in the east and west Caspian Sea lowland. Based on p-distance parameter, the east and west groups showed a low level of genetic differentiation (0.2%).

Anatomical variations and clinical significance of the pyramidalis muscle: A detailed morphometric analysis in cadaveric population

Background: The pyramidalis muscle, often considered a minor muscle of the anterior abdominal wall, has variable presence and morphology across populations. Its clinical significance, particularly in surgical interventions involving the suprapubic region, necessitates a detailed understanding of its anatomical features. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the incidence, morphometric variations (length, width, and thickness), and clinical relevance of the pyramidalis muscle in the cadaveric population, offering insights that could enhance surgical outcomes in the suprapubic region. Materials and Methods: It conducted on 60 formalin-fixed cadavers from the Department of Anatomy at Guntur Medical College, Guntur, and Government Medical College, Ongole. This study utilized digital Vernier calipers and measuring tape for precise morphometric analysis. Parameters such as presence, number of bellies, length, width, thickness, and the Pyramidalis Pubo Umbilical Index were meticulously recorded. Results: The pyramidalis muscle was present in 83.3% of the cases, with 80% bilateral and 3.3% unilateral occurrences. The mean length was 66.2 mm on the right and 64.4 mm on the left. The width at the base averaged 23.4 mm (right) and 22.5 mm (left), with a consistent mean thickness of 4.1 mm on both sides. The Pyramidalis Pubo Umbilical Index was 39.82 (right) and 39.2 (left), indicating little variation between sides. Conclusion: The pyramidalis muscle exhibits a high incidence rate and specific morphometric characteristics in the cadaveric population. These findings underscore its potential impact on surgical approaches in the suprapubic area, providing valuable anatomical insights for healthcare professionals.

La presencia de cuernos determina el rango social de carneros Dorper

The aim was to determine if the presence of horns on rams defines whether they are high-ranking or low-ranking. Dorper rams (n = 20) were evaluated to determine their social rank (SR), either high (HSR) or low (LSR), under intensive management conditions. Upon SR classification, the morphometric variables horns presence (HP) or absence (HA) and distance between them, the height at the withers, body length, thoracic perimeter, and scrotal circumference, male odor, body weight, and body condition score were registered. Afterward, semen evaluations were performed, recording the ejaculated volume, sperm concentration, and mass motility. There were no differences (p &gt; 0.05) for the morphometric variables between the groups. However, HP as well as semen quality were higher (p &lt; 0.05) in HSR males. The presence of horns in the rams determined their social rank and the dominant males showed better semen quality than the subordinate males.