Geometric morphometric analysis of red fox (Vulpes vulpes) skulls using radiometric techniques at three and six months of development.

Background: Morphological growth naturally progresses with age; however, the rate of growth varies across different parts of an organism, with certain structures developing more rapidly than others. This study aimed to analyze and compare the skull development of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) during two specific developmental stages: the 3rd and 6th months, which represent distinct growth phases in their early ontogeny.

Methods: In this study, we aimed to analyze and compare skull development in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) during two specific post-natal time points: the 3rd and 6th months. Shape analysis was performed using radiographic images of nine red foxes at both the third and sixth months.

Results: Shape differences were observed in the skulls of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) at these two ages. Our findings confirmed the hypothesis that skull shape changes over time, reflecting distinct morphological adaptations associated with age-related growth. In the measurements at the 3rd month, the neurocranial region exhibited a more distinct and developed structure compared to the facial bones. Toward the 6th month, the skull displayed a thinner and more elongated structure with the further development of the facial bones.

Conclusions: This difference indicates a period of rapid growth and development in the neurocranial area, suggesting that red foxes experience significant neurological and sensory development early in life. Future studies on skull shape variation across different developmental stages in red foxes can expand on these findings. Age-related morphological studies, such as this one, provide essential baseline data on the natural growth and development of wild species like red foxes. This knowledge is essential for identifying deviations from normal development, which could result from environmental stressors, habitat changes, or malnutrition.