Craniofacial morphometrics and macro-neurometrics of the fruit bat (Eidolon Helvum)

ABSTRACT

This study involved the measurement of craniofacial indices and linear neurometrics in the fruit bat, Eidolon helvum, which are found abundantly in Nigeria. The mean head weight was 38.7±2.74g, while the rima oris length, distance between medial canthi, and the height of the philtrum were 48.9±7.59 mm, 14.1±0.49 mm, 8.67±0.48 mm respectively. The brain weight and length of brain were 3.22±0.50 g and 2.79±0.18 cm respectively. The males had consistently higher values for most craniofacial and all neurometric parameters measured, while the female values were higher only in the width of the left external nares (5.08±0.55 mm in the females, and 5.0±0.39 mm in the males). Correlation studies revealed negative correlation between the weight of the animal and the weight of the brain. Data obtained from this study will serve as baseline data for craniofacial anatomy and neuro-anatomy research for the fruit bat, Eidolon helvum, and also in comparative anatomy with other breeds of bats (AU)

RESUMEN

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