Comparative study of some limb elements for Felidae and Canidae families (Mammalia, Carnivora)

Abstract

This comparative osteological study provides an overview of the differences that exist between some limb elements of the postcranial skeleton of two carnivore families (Mammalia, Carnivora), Canidae and Felidae. We used 42 specimens belonging to the two families, including juvenile, adult and old individuals, stored in various osteological Mexican collections. Morphological differences were found between families. The phalanges, metacarpals, metatarsals and tarsals of the Canidae are long and narrow whereas those in Felidae are short and wide.