engleski

Craniometric characteristics of golden jackal (Canis aureus I.)

Aim of the research was to determine craniometric characteristics of two different population of golden jackal (Canis aureus L.) which exists in the coastal part of Croatia (Meditterranean population) and in the eastern part (Slavonian population), and to determine differences between sexes. The specimens had been hunted and collected in the period 2008- 2010. Skulls of animals older then 2 years have been studied, of which 32 belonged to Slavonian, and 11 to Mediterranean population. In samples from Slavonian population, 13 (40, 62 %) were females and 19 (59, 37 %) were males, while the sex were not recognized in Mediterranean population. Standard cranial measurements were taken for 44 parameters on each skull ; 32 parameters specifically on skull, and 12 on mandible. All measurements were carried out using digital calliper to an accuracy of 0, 01 mm. Statistically significant difference (P<0, 05) between two different populations of golden jackal was confirmed for these parameters: greatest neurocranium breadth, greatest inner height of the orbit, height of the occipital triangle and height of the vertical ramus of the mandible. Highly significant difference that reflects sexual dimorphism were confirmed for 31 parameters, out of which 19 parameters at significance level (P<0, 01), and for 12 paremeters P<0, 05. Coefficient calculated as a ratio between skull length and width was 1, 88 in males and 1, 89 in females, proved to be unreliable for sex determination in golden jackal.

craniometric characteristics ; Golden jackal ; Canis Aureus L.

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