A study on the macro-anatomical differences of the skeletons of wolf and fox as compared with the skeleton of dog

Abstract

In this study, the differences that skeleton (except the cranium) of wolf (canis lupus) and fox (canis vulpes) as compared with those of dog were investigated. The observed dijferences were itemized as follow: 2- The transverse process of axis is at the level of the posterior extremity in fox and dog wehereas it passed approximately 10 to 12 mm this level in wolf 3- The spinous process of the third cervical vertebra is 10 mm in length in wolf whereas it is 1 to 2 mm in odg and fox. 4- Processus hamatus of scapula is at the level of glenoid cavity in dog. It is about 10 mm in wolf and 2 to 3 mm in fox. 5- The shaft of radius is thicker and more concav in wolf. It is less thick and concav in dog and fox. 6- The anterior half of the obturator foramen of the os coxae is sharp oval in wolf and fox and blunt oval in dog. 7- There is a medially prominent tubercle between the trochanter minor of the femur and the head offemur in wolf. This tubercle is absent in fox and dog. 8- A deep groove exists in internal face of the fibula in wolf whereas it is not almost present in fox and dog.