Abstract

RIVAS, Belkis A.  and  LINARES, Omar J.. Changes in the shape of the hind foot among Sigmodontine rodents according to locomotion and habitat. Mastozool. neotrop. [online]. 2006, vol.13, n.2, pp.205-215. ISSN 0327-9383.

Changes in the shape of the hind feet among nine genera of sigmodontine rodents from the Venezuelan Guyana were correlated and compared, using the 'Thin Plate Spline' geometric technique. The results demonstrate that three types of shape can be distinguished among these taxa, according to their adaptations: terrestrial of forest (Neacomys, Oryzomys), terrestrial of open vegetation (Necromys, Sigmodon, Zygodontomys) and climber-arboreal (Oecomys, Rhipidomys). The first group is characterized by a lengthened plantar surface, long fingers and short claws; the second have short fingers and long claws; and the third group is characterized by the reduction of the plantar surface and claws, and enlargement of the fingers. The semiaquatic form (Nectomys), is similar to the terrestrial of forest, while Oligoryzomys, considered as a terrestrial form, is similar to the climber-arboreal.

Keywords : Thin-plate-spline; Adaptation; Locomotion; Thin-plate-spline; Venezuela.

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