The appendicular myology of Stegoceras validum (Ornithischia: Pachycephalosauridae) and implications for the head-butting hypothesis.

ABSTRACT: In this study, we use an exceptional skeleton of the pachycephalosaur Stegoceras validum (UALVP 2) to inform a comprehensive appendicular muscle reconstruction of the animal, with the goal of better understanding the functional morphology of the pachycephalosaur postcranial skeleton. We find that S. validum possessed a conservative forelimb musculature, particularly in comparison to early saurischian bipeds. By contrast, the pelvic and hind limb musculature are more derived, reflecting peculiarities of the underlying skeletal anatomy. The iliotibialis, ischiocaudalis, and caudofemoralis muscles have enlarged attachment sites and the caudofemoralis has greater leverage owing to the distal displacement of the fourth trochanter along the femur. These larger muscles, in combination with the wi

SUBMITTER: Moore BRS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9436104 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature