Abstract:
The red panda and ring-tailed lemur are species, which are commonly kept in
zoological gardens. The red panda and ring-tailed lemur are classified as
vulnerable and endangered, respectively, by the International Union for
Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. The aim of this study was to
describe the normal radiographic thoracic anatomy, radiographic and
ultrasonographic abdominal anatomy as well as the normal morphology of the
pelvis, thoracic and hind limb in captive red pandas and ring-tailed lemurs as
a reference for clinical use. Radiography and ultrasonography were performed
in adult captive red pandas and ring-tailed lemurs during annual health
examinations. Bone specimens of adult red pandas and ring-tailed lemurs
were used for gross osteological study. The morphology of the pelvis, thoracic
and hind limb of the red panda and ring-tailed lemur supported the presence
of strong flexor and supinator muscles and flexibility of limb joints, which are
important in arboreal quadrupedal locomotion. However, the scapula of the
ring-tailed lemur is modified for both arboreal and terrestrial quadrupedal
locomotion. Additionally, the morphology of the pelvis and hind limb of the
ring-tailed lemur showed locomotor adaptation for jumping. Normal
radiographic and ultrasonographic reference ranges for thoracic structures
and abdominal organs were established and ratios were calculated.
Knowledge of the normal morphology, radiographic and ultrasonographic
anatomy of the red panda and ring-tailed lemur should prove useful in the
diagnosis of diseases and for routine health examinations.
