Numeric and morphological studies of the African lion (Panthera leo leo) pectoral limb.

Background: The Importance of the appendicular skeleton in the conformation, shape and physiology of wild animals especially carnivores for adaptation and survival cannot be overemphasized, as limited and obsolete information on the bones of the forelimb necessitated this study. Matured adult African lions (Male and female) that weighed 173 kg and 112 kg were obtained at different times after post mortem examinations of their carcasses. Bone preparation was achieved via cold water maceration after proper skin and muscle removal to a barest minimum.

Results: The acromion process of the scapula consisted of a ventral hamate and caudal suprahamate processes. The Clavicle was absent in this species. The musculospiral groove of the humerus was more or less absent while its supracondyloid foramen and crest were positioned above the medial condyle and lateral condyle respectively. The radio-ulna presented a twisted appearance with the radius slightly curved thereby creating an extensive interosseous space that spanned its entire length. The seven (7) carpal bones were uniquely arranged in two rows while the 5 metacarpals anchored 5 digits with 3 phalanges except the first with 2 phalanges each. Two sesamoid bones were located on the ventral surface of each Metacarpophalangeal joint. None was seen on its dorsal surface. The 3rd phalanx had a unique appearance with a crescent plate projecting from the ventral cavity. The average total number of bones constituting the pectoral limb was 80.

Conclusion: Numerical information and detailed anatomical features of the pectoral limb bones of the African lion (Panthera leo leo) have added some valuable literature to science. This further serves as a baseline data for future scientific exposition on this species.