Current technologies in craniological research of cattle of Yaroslavl and Kholmogory breeds

Craniometric studies play a key role in the anthropology and morphology of animals; allow us to study the patterns of variations and relationships in the structure of the skull. A comparative analysis of the morphological characteristics of the skulls of Yaroslavl and Kholmogory breeds of cattle has been presented in the article. The purpose of the research was to study the craniological indicators of the skulls of Yaroslavl and Kholmogory breeds based on a current technique of scanning and analyzing 3D models. The research was carried out at the E. F. Liskun State Museum of Animal Husbandry. The material for the research was the skulls of cattle from the craniological collection of the museum of two breeds Yaroslavl (n=40) and Kholmogory (n=33). For the study, the 3D scanning method was used, as well as measure ments of three-dimensional models according to the A. Vonden Driesch method for the genus Bos, including 48 measurements. Additionally, nine craniometric indices were calculated. The use of 3D scanning and specialized software opens up new possibilities for craniological research, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of the morphological features of the skulls, identifying subtle diff erences and studying the evolution of breeds, and also allows for the creation of digital models of the skulls available for further research. Yaroslavl and Kholmogory breeds demonstrate similar craniological characteristics, which allows them to be classified as belonging to the same craniological type Bos taurus primigenius.