Abstract:
There is limited information available on the morphology of the thoracic limb of the ringtailed
lemur (Lemur catta). This study describes the morphology of the thoracic limb of
captive ring-tailed lemurs evidenced by gross osteology and radiography as a guide for
clinical use. Radiographic findings of 12 captive ring-tailed lemurs are correlated with
bone specimens of three adult animals. The clavicle is well developed. The scapula has
a large area for the origin of the m. teres major. The coracoid and hamate processes are well developed. The lateral supracondylar crest and medial epicondyle are prominent.
The metacarpal bones are widely spread, and the radial tuberosity is prominent. These
features indicate the presence of strong flexor muscles and flexibility of thoracic limb
joints, which are important in arboreal quadrupedal locomotion. Furthermore, an ovoid
ossicle is always seen at the interphalangeal joint of the first digit. Areas of increased
soft tissue opacity are superimposed over the proximal half of the humerus and distal
half of the antebrachium in male animals as a result of the scent gland. Knowledge of
the morphology of the thoracic limb of individual species is important for accurate
interpretation and diagnosis of musculoskeletal diseases.
