The ontogeny of the femur and tibia during post-hatching development in the tortoise Chelonoidis chilensis (Chelonia: Testudinidae)

What is it about?

This study examines the development of the femur and tibia in the terrestrial tortoise Chelonoidis chilensis, focusing on changes from juveniles to adults. Using X-ray imaging, allometric analysis, and geometric morphometrics, we analyzed these bones at three stages of growth. We found that both bones grow proportionally to body mass, maintaining consistent allometric relationships. Bone density in the femur increases significantly in adults, likely due to mechanical stress and the need for structural support. However, bone shape does not change significantly across stages. These findings suggest that growth patterns and density adjustments are adaptations to the biomechanical demands of supporting a heavy body in a terrestrial environment. This research provides insights into the developmental biology and evolutionary adaptations of terrestrial tortoises.

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