Wing‐bone length allometry in birds

摘要: A comparative analysis using both independent contrasts (CAIC) and a species level was used to investigate the allometric scaling of avian wing-bone lengths. Total arm (ta=humerus+ulna+manus) scaled with positive allometry as body mass (M)0.37–0.39. Similarly, in accordance previous studies, wing-span (b) positively allometric, but CAIC suggested lower exponent (M0.35) than found data points (M0.39). Contrary individual wing-bones appear scale similar exponents against M isometrically ta. In addition general trend for larger birds have longer wings, ta, their ta proportion b. detailed study primary feather length elbow joint angle across wide range bird size, however, is required before conclusive explanation this increase relative b can be established. Scaling equations are presented that predict M, from lengths, which may use palaeontologists wishing reconstruct whole animals single bones.