Axial skeletal morphological studies on the helmeted Guinea fowl (Numida meleagridis)

• DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12826
• Publication Date: 2022-06-21T09:29:15Z
• Authors: Kenechukwu Tobech...; Timothy Adeoluwa ...; Esther Solomon Kigir; Alhaji Zubair Jaji; Suleiman Olawoye ...
• Keywords: Vomer; Vertebra; Thoracic vertebrae

This study on the morphological features of bones helmeted guinea fowl (Numidia meleagridis) specifically axial skeleton was conducted for documentation and valuable information differences when compared with other species same order. Ten (10) Helmeted fowls (5 females 5 males) an average weight 3.0 kg were euthanized via jugular vein severance bone preparation achieved use insect larvae. The skull presented elongated structure made up paired unpaired flat, short long distinctive features. frontal projected caudodorsally to form a horn like structure, process at its middle while vomer absent. cervical vertebrae 14 in number starting from first (Atlas) last vertebra without rib. Specific distinguishing evident Atlas, Axis, 3rd 5th, 6th 11th 12th 14th vertebrae. thoracic 7 comprising 1st single free vertebra; notarium (fused 2nd 5th), 7th that fused synsacrum which ankylosis lumbar sacral caudal last; pygostyle being distinct appearance. ribs pairs, two asternal remaining five sternal consisted proximal vertebral distal portions. curved uncinate articulated border portions 5th ribs. proved be carinate by presenting sternum dorsolateral processes ventral carina. In conclusion, this revealed except skull, Guinea similarities domestic (Gallus domesticus).