Skull and Jaw Musculature Variation: Adaptive Feeding Strategies Across Four Hyena Species
Start Date
April 2024
Location
2nd floor - Library
Abstract
Abstract
This study explores the complex relationship that exists between the skull structures of various hyena species and how they feed. Using the advanced software program ImageJ from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), we thoroughly analyze the size and strength of a hyena's skull. Four different hyena species are included in our study: the hardy spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), the flexible striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), the diligent brown hyena (Hyaena brunnea), and the specialized aardwolf (Proteles cristata). By constructing and verifying theories about the connection between feeding habits and skull structure, one can anticipate providing insight into how hyenas have adapted to fill a variety of ecological specialties. It anticipates gaining insights into the skull's characteristics by carefully measuring and analyzing them using ImageJ. The evolutionary modifications have influenced the feeding ecology and cranial construction of hyenas. The feeding habits of the four hyena species would change if their skull sizes and jaw strength differed. In animals like the spotted hyena, larger skulls and stronger jaws might allow for more effective bone-crushing and scavenging. The brown hyena's medium-sized skull and moderate jaw strength may allow for a varied diet and more feeding opportunities. Aardwolves may be more suited for specialized insectivory due to their smaller skulls and stronger jaws. Jaw strength and skull sizes that are universal may allow for adaptation.
Skull and Jaw Musculature Variation: Adaptive Feeding Strategies Across Four Hyena Species
2nd floor - Library
Abstract
This study explores the complex relationship that exists between the skull structures of various hyena species and how they feed. Using the advanced software program ImageJ from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), we thoroughly analyze the size and strength of a hyena's skull. Four different hyena species are included in our study: the hardy spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), the flexible striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), the diligent brown hyena (Hyaena brunnea), and the specialized aardwolf (Proteles cristata). By constructing and verifying theories about the connection between feeding habits and skull structure, one can anticipate providing insight into how hyenas have adapted to fill a variety of ecological specialties. It anticipates gaining insights into the skull's characteristics by carefully measuring and analyzing them using ImageJ. The evolutionary modifications have influenced the feeding ecology and cranial construction of hyenas. The feeding habits of the four hyena species would change if their skull sizes and jaw strength differed. In animals like the spotted hyena, larger skulls and stronger jaws might allow for more effective bone-crushing and scavenging. The brown hyena's medium-sized skull and moderate jaw strength may allow for a varied diet and more feeding opportunities. Aardwolves may be more suited for specialized insectivory due to their smaller skulls and stronger jaws. Jaw strength and skull sizes that are universal may allow for adaptation.
