Locomotor adaptations in the limb skeletons of North American mustelids
Graduation Date
1980
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Other
Program
Thesis (M.A.)--Humboldt State University, 1980
Committee Chair Name
Timothy E. Lawlor
Committee Chair Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Keywords
Mustelidae, Animal locomotion, Humboldt State University -- Theses -- Biology
Abstract
The morphology and proportions of the limb skeletons of thirteen species of North American mustelids are examined. A series of forty-nine ratios is generated for each species. Ratios are analyzed using standard descriptive statistics; mean, standard deviation, variance, standard error, coefficient of variation, and range. Ratios are also analyzed with a closest connection (Prim) network. Qualitative comparisons of appendicular skeletons are made with drawings of each limb element. Progressive specialization from an hypothesized primitive condition to fossorial, arboreal-cursorial, aquatic, and ambulatory modes of locomotion is revealed in limb skeletons of the Mustelidae. Relationships between morphology and proportions of mustelid limb skeletons, and modes of locomotion are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Holmes, Thor, "Locomotor adaptations in the limb skeletons of North American mustelids" (1980). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 1629.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/1629
https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/5d86p2439