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Keywords = geometric morphometrics

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33 pages, 1826 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Evaluation of Probiotic Effects on Laying Hen Physiology: From Performance to Bone and Gut Morphology
by E. Ebru Onbaşılar, Sakine Yalçın, Caner Bakıcı, Barış Batur, Yeliz Kaya Kartal, Ozan Ahlat, İhsan Berat Kılıçlı and Suzan Yalçın
Animals 2025, 15(16), 2408; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15162408 - 16 Aug 2025
Viewed by 311
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of probiotic supplementation on performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, gut morphology, fecal microbiota, and bone morphology in Lohmann Brown laying hens aged 44 weeks over a 16-week period. Ninety-six hens were randomly divided into control and probiotic groups [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of probiotic supplementation on performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, gut morphology, fecal microbiota, and bone morphology in Lohmann Brown laying hens aged 44 weeks over a 16-week period. Ninety-six hens were randomly divided into control and probiotic groups (n = 48 each). The probiotic group received probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus acidophilus KUEN 1607 and Pediococcus acidilactici KUEN 1608 via drinking water at 0.5%. Probiotic supplementation significantly improved feed conversion ratio (FCR), eggshell strength and thickness, and albumen quality (p < 0.001) and reduced the incidence of cracked and shell-less eggs (p < 0.05). Yolk and serum cholesterol levels decreased (p < 0.001), and antioxidant parameters improved, along with elevated serum IgG (p < 0.001). Histological analysis showed an increased ratio of villus height to crypt depth (p < 0.001) in the jejunum, indicating enhanced intestinal health. Fecal samples revealed increased Lactobacillus spp. and reduced coliform counts (p < 0.001), suggesting improved gut microbiota balance. While bone volume and surface area showed no significant difference, 3D geometric morphometric analysis identified subtle shape changes in long bones, especially the femur and tibiotarsus. These findings demonstrate that the selected probiotic combination supports nutrient utilization, egg quality, gut integrity, immune status, and skeletal health, offering a sustainable strategy to enhance productivity and welfare in laying hens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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21 pages, 8328 KiB  
Article
Three-Dimensional Morphometric Analysis of the Columbretes Grande Turbidite Channel (Ebro Continental Margin, NW Mediterranean)
by José Luis Casamor
Geosciences 2025, 15(8), 318; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15080318 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 315
Abstract
Turbidite channels are final conduits for the transfer of terrigenous detritus to the deep-sea depositional systems. Studying their morphology and geometric parameters can provide information on density flow characteristics and sedimentary processes, making it an objective and quantitative way to differentiate the deep-sea [...] Read more.
Turbidite channels are final conduits for the transfer of terrigenous detritus to the deep-sea depositional systems. Studying their morphology and geometric parameters can provide information on density flow characteristics and sedimentary processes, making it an objective and quantitative way to differentiate the deep-sea deposits they feed, which are of special interest to the oil industry. In this work, the morphology is studied, the main geometric parameters are calculated, and the potential sedimentary fill of a turbiditic channel, the Columbretes Grande channel, located on the Ebro continental margin (NW Mediterranean Sea), is reconstructed and visualized in 3D. This complete morphometric analysis shows a concave and smooth channel indicating a profile in equilibrium with local evidence of erosion. Considering the height of the flanks (< 150 m), the existence of well-developed levees, the high sinuosity of some of its reaches, and the relatively low slopes, the channel can be classified as depositional. The sinuosity index is close to 2 in some courses, and the gentle slopes suggest that the fine-grained turbidity currents that episodically circulate in its interior reach the channel’s end. Full article
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19 pages, 4395 KiB  
Article
Morphometric Analysis Reveals New Data in the History of Vitis Cultivars
by José Javier Martín-Gómez, José Luis Rodríguez-Lorenzo, Francisco Emmanuel Espinosa-Roldán, Félix Cabello Sáenz de Santamaría, Gregorio Muñoz-Organero, Ángel Tocino and Emilio Cervantes
Plants 2025, 14(16), 2481; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14162481 - 10 Aug 2025
Viewed by 333
Abstract
Seeds of different Vitis cultivars (V. vinifera subsp. vinifera) have an interesting diversity of shapes, ranging from the small seeds of high solidity and low aspect ratio in some species of Vitis and V. vinifera subsp. Sylvestris to other morphological types [...] Read more.
Seeds of different Vitis cultivars (V. vinifera subsp. vinifera) have an interesting diversity of shapes, ranging from the small seeds of high solidity and low aspect ratio in some species of Vitis and V. vinifera subsp. Sylvestris to other morphological types with elongated stalks, characteristic of the more recent cultivars, suggesting a transition with alterations in seed shape associated with groups of cultivars. J-index analysis is a morphometrical technique that measures the percentage similarity of seed images with geometric models. Three models based on the outlines of reference cultivars (a model based on the Spanish female cultivar Hebén; and mixed models for French and German Chenin and Gewürtztraminer, both related to Savagnin Blanc; and Regina dei Vigneti and Muscat Hamburg, related with the Muscat group) have been applied to select the average outlines (Aos) resembling these models from a collection of cultivars maintained at IMIDRA. Three groups resulted, called Hebén, Chenin, and Regina, with 15, 25, and 18 cultivars, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) with the Fourier coefficients of the Aos for these cultivars and seeds of other species of Vitis and V. vinifera subsp. sylvestris showed differences between groups. Specific Fourier coefficients were related with geometric properties of the seeds, circularity, roundness, aspect ratio, and solidity as well as with diverse measurements of curvature allowing to establish hypothesis about the change in geometric properties along the evolution of cultivars. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Development and Morphogenesis)
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17 pages, 7524 KiB  
Article
Comparative Cranial and Postcranial Osteology of Blanus Species (Squamata: Amphisbaenia) from Türkiye: Insights from Morphological Evolution and Phylogeny
by Elif Yıldırım Caynak, Kamil Candan, Yusuf Kumlutaş, Çetin Ilgaz, Ahmet Gökay Korkmaz, Emine Beyza Yazar, Eda Şen, Ecem Büşra Hastürk, Sezen Birlik, Esra Akat Çömden and Serkan Gül
Life 2025, 15(8), 1263; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081263 - 9 Aug 2025
Viewed by 400
Abstract
The genus Blanus (Amphisbaenia: Blanidae) comprises fossorial, limbless reptiles with cryptic external morphology, making species delimitation particularly challenging. This study presents a comprehensive comparative osteological and geometric morphometric investigation of three Blanus species distributed in Türkiye—B. alexandri, B. aporus, and [...] Read more.
The genus Blanus (Amphisbaenia: Blanidae) comprises fossorial, limbless reptiles with cryptic external morphology, making species delimitation particularly challenging. This study presents a comprehensive comparative osteological and geometric morphometric investigation of three Blanus species distributed in Türkiye—B. alexandri, B. aporus, and B. strauchi. Using both dry and cleared-and-stained specimens, diagnostic variations in cranial and postcranial skeletal elements, especially elements within the nasal, maxilla, vomer, squamosal, dentary, and coronoid bones, as well as vertebral counts were identified. A geometric morphometric analysis of the dorsal and ventral cranial morphology revealed distinct shape differences, particularly separating B. alexandri from the other two species along principal component axes. A phylogenetic analysis based on 45 discrete osteological characters supported the monophyly of the eastern Blanus clade, with B. alexandri forming a distinct lineage from B. aporus and B. strauchi. These findings emphasize the significance of skeletal morphology for resolving phylogenetic relationships and highlight the role of osteological characters in refining species boundaries within cryptic reptilian taxa. The integrative approach employed here underscores the evolutionary distinctiveness of Anatolian Blanus and enhances our understanding of morphological evolution in amphisbaenians. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Animal Science: 4th Edition)
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11 pages, 1958 KiB  
Article
Morphological Diversity of Moroccan Honey Bees (Apis mellifera L. 1758): Insights from a Geometric Morphometric Study of Wing Venation in Honey Bees from Different Climatic Regions
by Salma Bakhchou, Abdessamad Aglagane, Adam Tofilski, Fouad Mokrini, Omar Er-Rguibi, El Hassan El Mouden, Julita Machlowska, Siham Fellahi and El Hassania Mohssine
Diversity 2025, 17(8), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17080527 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 360
Abstract
The morphological diversity of Moroccan honey bees (Apis mellifera) was investigated using geometric morphometrics to assess wing venation patterns among three populations representing three climatic zones: desert, semiarid, and Mediterranean. A total of 193 honey bee samples were analyzed and compared [...] Read more.
The morphological diversity of Moroccan honey bees (Apis mellifera) was investigated using geometric morphometrics to assess wing venation patterns among three populations representing three climatic zones: desert, semiarid, and Mediterranean. A total of 193 honey bee samples were analyzed and compared to historical reference samples from the Morphometric Bee Data Bank in Oberursel, representing the three subspecies: A. m. intermissa, A. m. sahariensis, and A. m. major. Principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis revealed significant, yet overlapping morphological differences among the climatic groups. Spatial modeling showed a significant southwest–northeast clinal gradient in wing morphology. Almost all samples were assigned to the African evolutionary lineage, except one, suggesting a dominant African genetic background. Interestingly, all three populations showed greater morphological affinity to A. m. intermissa than to A. m. sahariensis, which could indicate introgression or limitations in the current reference dataset. These discrepancies highlight the necessity of revising subspecies boundaries using updated morphometric and genomic approaches. These findings improve our understanding of honey bee biodiversity in Morocco and provide valuable information for conservation and breeding programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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11 pages, 1796 KiB  
Article
Head Sexual Characterization of Sanmartinero Creole Bovine Breed Assessed by Geometric Morphometric Methods
by Arcesio Salamanca-Carreño, Pere M. Parés-Casanova, Mauricio Vélez-Terranova, David E. Rangel-Pachón, Germán Martínez-Correal and Jaime Rosero-Alpala
Ruminants 2025, 5(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/ruminants5030033 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 462
Abstract
Geometric morphometrics is performed on different species in different contexts. Here, the aim was to investigate morphological differences in the head of the Sanmartinero Creole bovine to examine head shape variations between sexes using geometric morphometric methods. A sample of cranial pictures of [...] Read more.
Geometric morphometrics is performed on different species in different contexts. Here, the aim was to investigate morphological differences in the head of the Sanmartinero Creole bovine to examine head shape variations between sexes using geometric morphometric methods. A sample of cranial pictures of 43 animals (13 males and 30 females) was obtained, and form (size + shape) was studied by means of geometric morphometric techniques using a set of 14 landmarks. This approach eliminated potential dietary effects, ensuring that the observed shape variations were primarily due to intrinsic morphological differences. Sexual dimorphism was found in form (for both size and shape) of the head of the Sanmartinero Creole bovine breed. Males had significantly larger heads based on centroid size (U = 714, p = 0.0004), confirming true sexual size differences, and Principal Component Analysis revealed overlapping head shapes with sexual dimorphism concentrated at midline sagittal landmarks (between the most rostral and caudal orbit points) and paired lateral points, indicating that males have broader and longer heads. The two evaluated characters (head size and shape) are of special interest for the conservation of the breed, especially in those cases whose objectives are to maintain the uniqueness, distinctiveness, and uniformity of the populations. This study analyzed animals subjected to the same feeding program, ensuring the elimination of additional variables. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers of Ruminants 2024–2025)
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13 pages, 2839 KiB  
Article
Cranial Vault Deformation and Its Association with Mandibular Deviation in Patients with Facial Asymmetry: A CT-Based Study
by Mayuko Nishimura, Chie Tachiki, Taiki Morikawa, Dai Ariizumi, Satoru Matsunaga, Keisuke Sugahara, Yasuo Aihara, Akira Watanabe, Akira Katakura, Takakazu Kawamata and Yasushi Nishii
Diagnostics 2025, 15(13), 1702; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15131702 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 449
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Facial asymmetry is known to cause not only deformities in the facial skeleton but also alterations in the cranial vault. However, limited research has explored the association between mandibular asymmetry and cranial vault deformation. This study aimed to evaluate the three-dimensional [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Facial asymmetry is known to cause not only deformities in the facial skeleton but also alterations in the cranial vault. However, limited research has explored the association between mandibular asymmetry and cranial vault deformation. This study aimed to evaluate the three-dimensional craniofacial morphology, including the cranial vault, in patients with skeletal mandibular prognathism using computed tomography (CT) imaging. Methods: Patients were classified into two groups: those with facial asymmetry (ANB ≤ 0°, Menton deviation ≥ 4 mm) and those without (ANB ≤ 0°, Menton deviation < 3 mm). Reference planes were established in three orthogonal directions, and distances from anatomical landmarks on the maxilla and mandible to each reference plane were measured. Additionally, the cranial vault was segmented into four regions, and the volume of each section was calculated. Results: Compared with the symmetric group, the asymmetric group exhibited significant lateral displacement in the maxilla and both anteroposterior and lateral displacements in the mandible. Furthermore, a significant difference in the posterior cranial vault volume between the left and right sides was observed in the asymmetric group. A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.543, p = 0.045) was also found between the direction of mandibular deviation and the direction of posterior cranial vault deformation. Conclusions: A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.543, p = 0.045) was observed between mandibular deviation and posterior cranial vault asymmetry. These findings may suggest that the cranial vault morphology may influence facial asymmetry, and it may serve as one of the considerations for discussing the necessity of early intervention for cranial vault deformity during infancy. Full article
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11 pages, 1105 KiB  
Article
Patellar Shape Variation in Cats and Dogs: Implications for Orthopedic Surgical Planning
by Ebru Eravci Yalin, Yusuf Altundağ, Kemal Altunatmaz, Buket Çakar, Esra Acar, Edyta Pasicka, Ermiş Özkan, Ozan Gündemir and Mihaela-Claudia Spataru
Animals 2025, 15(11), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15111608 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 689
Abstract
The patella plays a vital role in stifle joint function by contributing to limb extension and joint stabilization. While its clinical significance in small animal orthopedic surgery is well established, detailed comparative data on patellar morphology in domestic cats and dogs remain limited. [...] Read more.
The patella plays a vital role in stifle joint function by contributing to limb extension and joint stabilization. While its clinical significance in small animal orthopedic surgery is well established, detailed comparative data on patellar morphology in domestic cats and dogs remain limited. This study aimed to investigate interspecific and intraspecific variation in patellar shape and size using three-dimensional geometric morphometric techniques. Computed tomography images of 18 cats and 55 dogs were used to construct 3D models, and a total of 14 anatomical landmarks were manually placed on each patella. Generalized Procrustes Analysis was applied, followed by principal component analysis to explore patterns of shape variation. The results revealed a significant difference in shape between cats and dogs, with dogs exhibiting broader variation and larger centroid sizes. Regression analysis indicated that 12.2% of the observed shape variation could be attributed to centroid size, reflecting the influence of patellar size. This strong link suggests that size has a significant influence on how the patella’s shape varies, especially in dogs. These findings highlight the importance of individual variation in patellar morphology, particularly in dogs. A single standardized implant or surgical technique may not be appropriate for all cases. Integrating shape and size evaluations into preoperative imaging can help improve implant fit, joint stability, and overall surgical success. In the absence of breed-specific data, individualized planning remains the most reliable approach. Full article
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16 pages, 1344 KiB  
Article
Sexual Selection in Mosquitofish: Differences in the Use of Mating Cues Between Sexes
by Jiefei Wei, Bowen Feng, Chenglong Dong, Bojian Chen and Kai Liu
Animals 2025, 15(10), 1489; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15101489 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 421
Abstract
Sexual selection is a major driver of speciation and evolution, with mate choice being a key component. Individuals assess mate quality by integrating various mating cues. The Western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis), a species exhibiting pronounced sexual dimorphism in body size and [...] Read more.
Sexual selection is a major driver of speciation and evolution, with mate choice being a key component. Individuals assess mate quality by integrating various mating cues. The Western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis), a species exhibiting pronounced sexual dimorphism in body size and secondary sexual traits, serves as an ideal model for studying mate choice. This study examines the impact of mating cues on mate choice in different sexes of G. affinis through a combination of morphological parameter database construction, computer-simulated animations, and dichotomous association preference tests. The results showed that male gonopodium status significantly affects female mate choice. Females exhibited a preference for males with resting-phase gonopodia, suggesting their aversion to forced copulation and sexual harassment in coercive mating systems. Furthermore, males preferred younger females, with this preference being positively correlated with male body size. This suggests that males are sensitive to sperm competition intensity and may base their choice on social rank. Geometric morphometric analysis and simulation experiments showed that males preferred females with larger gravid spots, regardless of age, suggesting that gravid spot size reflects female fecundity. Male preference for younger females with streamlined bodies and smaller abdomens was significant, but body size did not affect mate choice in general. Our findings highlight that female and male G. affinis employ different mate choice strategies, with females prioritizing male harassment avoidance and males considering multiple mating cues, not solely one dominant characteristic, in their mate choice decisions. These findings demonstrate that mate choice in G. affinis involves balancing conflicting preferences for traits associated with reduced harassment risk (e.g., resting-phase gonopodium in males) and those linked to reproductive potential (e.g., large gravid spot in females), highlighting the nuanced decision-making processes in both sexes. Full article
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19 pages, 6537 KiB  
Article
Multimodal Feature-Driven Deep Learning for the Prediction of Duck Body Dimensions and Weight
by Wenbo Xiao, Qiannan Han, Gang Shu, Guiping Liang, Hongyan Zhang, Song Wang, Zhihao Xu, Weican Wan, Chuang Li, Guitao Jiang and Yi Xiao
Agriculture 2025, 15(10), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15101021 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 719
Abstract
Accurate body dimension and weight measurements are critical for optimizing poultry management, health assessment, and economic efficiency. This study introduces an innovative deep learning-based model leveraging multimodal data—2D RGB images from different views, depth images, and 3D point clouds—for the non-invasive estimation of [...] Read more.
Accurate body dimension and weight measurements are critical for optimizing poultry management, health assessment, and economic efficiency. This study introduces an innovative deep learning-based model leveraging multimodal data—2D RGB images from different views, depth images, and 3D point clouds—for the non-invasive estimation of duck body dimensions and weight. A dataset of 1023 Linwu ducks, comprising over 5000 samples with diverse postures and conditions, was collected to support model training. The proposed method innovatively employs PointNet++ to extract key feature points from point clouds, extracts and computes corresponding 3D geometric features, and fuses them with multi-view convolutional 2D features. A Transformer encoder is then utilized to capture long-range dependencies and refine feature interactions, thereby enhancing prediction robustness. The model achieved a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 5.73% and an R2 of 0.953 across seven morphometric parameters describing body dimensions, and an MAPE of 10.49% with an R2 of 0.952 for body weight, indicating robust and consistent predictive performance across both structural and mass-related phenotypes. Unlike conventional manual measurements, the proposed model enables high-precision estimation while eliminating the necessity for physical handling, thereby reducing animal stress and broadening its application scope. This study marks the first application of deep learning techniques to poultry body dimension and weight estimation, providing a valuable reference for the intelligent and precise management of the livestock industry with far-reaching practical significance. Full article
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19 pages, 5152 KiB  
Article
Uncovering Human Tooth Marks in the Search for Dog Domestication: The Case of Coímbre Cave
by Idoia Claver, Verónica Estaca, María de Andrés-Herrero, Darío Herranz-Rodrigo, David Álvarez-Alonso and José Yravedra
Animals 2025, 15(9), 1319; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091319 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 725
Abstract
The domestication of the dog (Canis lupus familiaris) is one of the oldest and most complex processes of interaction between humans and animals. This phenomenon may have begun sometime between 30 and 15 ky calBP. Archaeological and genetic studies have provided [...] Read more.
The domestication of the dog (Canis lupus familiaris) is one of the oldest and most complex processes of interaction between humans and animals. This phenomenon may have begun sometime between 30 and 15 ky calBP. Archaeological and genetic studies have provided valuable insights into dog domestication, although the precise geographic location and origin of this process remain controversial and under debate. New methodologies, such as taphonomic analyses, offer opportunities to deepen our understanding of past human–dog interactions. In this context, the present study examines tooth marks found on some bone remains from the Upper Magdalenian site (15,500–13,200 cal BP) of Coímbre Cave (Peñamellera Alta, Asturias, Spain). The low incidence of carnivores at the site has raised the possibility that the tooth marks may have been produced by canids. However, a detailed taphonomic analysis combining geometric morphometrics with robust statistical methods—including MANOVA with post-hoc permutation tests—revealed that the marks identified at the site do not significantly differ from tooth marks produced by humans (p = 0.086). In contrast, tooth marks produced by other carnivores, such as Canis lupus signatus and Canis lupus familiaris, showed significant differences (p < 0.003). Although our study could not confirm the presence of domesticated dogs at the Magdalenian levels of Coímbre Cave, it has documented taphonomic processes that are rarely identified in the archaeological record. Furthermore, this study highlights the potential of tooth mark analysis as a key tool for future research on human–animal interactions in archaeological contexts. Full article
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13 pages, 2654 KiB  
Article
Geometric Morphometric Analysis of Sexual Dimorphism in the Bill of the White Stork (Ciconia ciconia)
by Ebuderda Günay, Tomasz Szara, Buket Çakar, Emine İrem Deveci, Ali Serhan Coşkun, Gökhan Gün, Funda Yiğit, Ozan Gündemir, Sokol Duro and Mihaela Claudia Spataru
Animals 2025, 15(9), 1312; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091312 - 1 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 711
Abstract
Sexual dimorphism in bill morphology influences foraging strategies and bird competitive interactions. This study uses geometric morphometric analyses to examine sex-based differences in the bill shape and size of Ciconia ciconia, a large wading bird. Standardized dorsal and lateral photographs of 45 [...] Read more.
Sexual dimorphism in bill morphology influences foraging strategies and bird competitive interactions. This study uses geometric morphometric analyses to examine sex-based differences in the bill shape and size of Ciconia ciconia, a large wading bird. Standardized dorsal and lateral photographs of 45 white storks (24 females and 21 males) were analyzed. The mean centroid size (CS) confirmed that males have significantly larger bills than females, yet principal component analysis revealed no reliable shape-based sex differentiation. Allometric analyses indicated that larger individuals exhibit more pronounced shape variations, likely tied to functional adaptations, though these were insufficient for sex determination. While bill size correlates with sex, shape variation does not serve as a reliable criterion for sexing C. ciconia. This study contributes to the understanding of sexual dimorphism in Ciconia ciconia by quantifying bill size differences using geometric morphometrics. Full article
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12 pages, 3147 KiB  
Article
Carapace Morphological Characteristics of Chinese Mitten Crab (Eriocheir sinensis) from Emerging Origins Revealed via Geometric Morphometrics
by Wang Zhang, Junren Xue, Li Ma and Jian Yang
Animals 2025, 15(9), 1300; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091300 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 475
Abstract
This study used geometric morphometrics to investigate the carapace features of Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis) from non-traditional/emerging origins (Zhenlai County and Bosten Lake) and identify differences in features relative to crabs from traditional origins (Yangcheng Lake). Thirty-five landmark data points [...] Read more.
This study used geometric morphometrics to investigate the carapace features of Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis) from non-traditional/emerging origins (Zhenlai County and Bosten Lake) and identify differences in features relative to crabs from traditional origins (Yangcheng Lake). Thirty-five landmark data points on the crab carapace were extracted based on the geometric morphometrics landmark point approach and standardized to obtain the mean shape of the crabs from the three origins. The carapace morphologies of crabs from the three different origins varied. Compared to the average morphology, the first lateral tooth of the carapace of the Zhenlai crab was shorter, and the M pattern was enlarged in males, whereas the first and second lateral teeth of the crabs from the other two origins were longer, and the M pattern was reduced. In female crabs, distinct morphological variations were observed across regions. In Zhenlai crabs, the lateral teeth were shorter, and the M pattern was enlarged. In Bosten crabs, the frontal tooth was shorter, the first and second lateral teeth were longer, and the posterior carapace margin was narrowed. In Yangcheng Lake crabs, the frontal and third lateral teeth were elongated, and the M pattern was narrowed. The discrimination accuracy of individual female and male crabs from different origins reached 100%. The results confirm that the carapace geometric morphometric method represents a convenient and non-lethal method of tracing E. sinensis origins in fine-scale production areas. Thus, this study provides guidance on developing a characteristic industrial chain for aquatic products of emerging origins, which may help to promote the sustainable development of the aquaculture industry in associated areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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10 pages, 692 KiB  
Article
Shape as a Key to Taxonomy: Morphometric Analysis of Tetropium Species (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
by Allan H. Smith-Pardo, Steven W. Lingafelter, David Laroze, Alejandro Piñeiro-Gonzalez and Hugo A. Benítez
Insects 2025, 16(4), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16040386 - 4 Apr 2025
Viewed by 881
Abstract
The study of shape by the use of geometric morphometrics has been an important tool for addressing taxonomic challenges in complex groups like the genus Tetropium Kirby, 1837 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). This insect genus includes 28 species, 8 of which are found in North [...] Read more.
The study of shape by the use of geometric morphometrics has been an important tool for addressing taxonomic challenges in complex groups like the genus Tetropium Kirby, 1837 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). This insect genus includes 28 species, 8 of which are found in North America, with the invasive T. fuscum (Fabricius) posing a significant quarantine risk as a pest of coniferous trees. The present study evaluated the use of geometric morphometrics to analyze the pronotum shape in females of nine species of the genus, showing the effectiveness of this tool in distinguishing between species. Even if some overlaps were found between some species, this research highlights the potential of GM in developing pest monitoring, quarantine managements, and integrated pest management programs. Our findings suggest that the use of a comprehensive database of landmarks, encompassing broader geographic and ecological diversity, could further improve species identification at ports of entry and facilitate trade. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Systematics, Phylogeny and Evolution)
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24 pages, 2850 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Correlation Between Gaze Patterns and Facial Geometric Parameters: A Cross-Cultural Comparison Between Real and Animated Faces
by Zhi-Lin Chen and Kang-Ming Chang
Symmetry 2025, 17(4), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17040528 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1039
Abstract
People are naturally drawn to symmetrical faces, as symmetry is often associated with attractiveness. In contrast to human faces, animated characters often emphasize certain geometric features, exaggerating them while maintaining symmetry and enhancing their visual appeal. This study investigated the impact of geometric [...] Read more.
People are naturally drawn to symmetrical faces, as symmetry is often associated with attractiveness. In contrast to human faces, animated characters often emphasize certain geometric features, exaggerating them while maintaining symmetry and enhancing their visual appeal. This study investigated the impact of geometric parameters of facial features on fixation duration and explored 60 facial samples across two races (American, Japanese) and two conditions (animated, real). Relevant length, angle, and area parameters were extracted from the eyebrows, eyes, ears, nose, and chin regions of the facial samples. Using an eye-tracking experiment design, fixation duration (FD) and fixation count (FC) were extracted from 10 s gaze stimuli. Sixty participants (32 males and 28 females) took part. The results showed that, compared to Japanese animation, American animation typically induced a longer FD and higher FC on features like the eyes (p < 0.001), nose (p < 0.001), ears (p < 0.01), and chin (p < 0.01). Compared to real faces, animated characters typically attracted a longer FD and higher FC on areas such as the eyebrows (p < 0.001), eyes (p < 0.001), and ears (p < 0.001), while the nose (p < 0.001) and chin (p < 0.001) attracted a shorter FD and lower FC. Additionally, a correlation analysis between FD and geometric features showed a high positive correlation in the geometric features of the eyes, nose, and chin for both American and Japanese animated faces. The geometric features of the nose in real American and Japanese faces showed a high negative correlation coefficient. These findings highlight notable differences in FD and FC across different races and facial conditions, suggesting that facial geometric features may play a role in shaping gaze patterns and contributing to the objective quantitative assessment of FD. These insights are critical for optimizing animated character design and enhancing engagement in cross-cultural media and digital interfaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computer-Aided Geometric Design and Matrices)
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