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The relative growth of the limb bones forHomo sapiens —As compared to anthropoid apes

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Abstract

For comparison with previously defined relative long bone lengths of growing anthropoid apes, the relative size increase of the raduus/humerus, tibia/femur and leg/arm lengths forHomo sapiens were determined. Results indicate thatHomo follows other Hominoidea during postnatal growth, maintaining general isometric patterns of relative long bone size increase within the proximal and distal segments of each limb. Variation between genera is primarily proportional, withHomo showing the relatively shortest radii and shorter tibae throughout growth. Between limbsHomo displays specializations toward disproportional increases of the lower limb, suggesting size required allometry for facilitative support.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthodontics, University of Connecticut Health Center, 06032, Farmington, Connecticut, U.S.A.

    Peter H. Buschang

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  1. Peter H. Buschang
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Additional information

This research was partially supported by NIDR fellowship No. T-32-DE07047.

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Buschang, P.H. The relative growth of the limb bones forHomo sapiens —As compared to anthropoid apes. Primates 23, 465–468 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02381330

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02381330

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