Cranial morphology in flying squirrels: diet, shape, and size disparity across tropical and temperate biomes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Species richness increases gradually as latitude decreases, however, the explanation for this phenomenon remains unclear. Ecological hypotheses suggest that greater niche diversity in tropical biomes may facilitate the coexistence of a larger number of species. The close relationship between species morphology and ecology can lead to a greater morphological disparity in tropical biomes.

Methods

In this study, we used 2D geometric morphometric techniques on the ventral view of the cranium of flying squirrels (Pteromyini, Sciuridae) to determine the relationship between diet and cranial morphology and to evaluate if morphological disparity is higher in tropical biomes.

Results

The results show that diet has a significant impact on cranial shape and size, with

SUBMITTER: Quesada A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11895237 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature