MEDLINE/PubMed Journal Browser Search

Pubmed for Handhelds

PUBMED FOR HANDHELDS

Search MEDLINE/PubMed

Title: Macro-anatomical and morphometric studies of the hindlimb of grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus, Temminck-1827).
Author: Onwuama KT, Ojo SA, Hambolu JO, Dzenda T, Zakari FO, Salami SO.
Journal: Anat Histol Embryol; 2018 Feb; 47(1):21-27. PubMed ID: 29139158.
Abstract:
The hindlimb of the grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus, Temminck-1827) was studied using 12 adult (≥6 months) rats of either sex with the mean weights of 1.42 ± 0.20 kg and 0.82 ± 0.13 kg for buck (n = 6) and doe (n = 6), respectively (p < .05). Characteristics of the bones were studied by gross observation after their preparation. Measurements of different segments of the hindlimb were also taken, giving a total average length of 31.80 cm. Correlation coefficients between length of bone and weight of rats were positive (p < .05) in bucks for all bone segments, except the pes (p > .05), whereas those in does were all non-significant (p > .05), with significant sexual dimorphism in the relationships. The average total number of bones in the hindlimb was 92, with no apparent sexual dimorphism. The bones of the hindlimb revealed important differences and similarities in morphology with those of other rodents. The Os coxae presented a relatively large obturator foramen, formed by the ramus of the ischium and shaft of the pubis. The femur had a body and two extremities with a prominent head, well-defined neck and trochanter. The fibula, a slender bone with triangular-shaped proximal extremity, ran down the length of tibia with proximal attachment (via cartilage) and distal fusion, leaving an extensive interosseus space. The pes revealed eight tarsals and four metatarsals; each of the metatarsals showed three phalanges.

[Abstract] [Full Text] [Related] [New Search]