Morphometry of the Femur, Tibia and Fibula of Plecturocebus caquetensis

Background: Osteology is the study of the structure and function of bones, aimed at understanding how an individual’s activity influences their size. While this branch of anatomy has been extensively explored in domestic animals, there have been limited investigations into Neotropical primates. This lack of research has resulted in a shortage of essential information for veterinarians and professionals working with wild populations, hindering efforts to ensure the health and protection of these species. Methods: A study was conducted on the large structures of the left and right hind limbs of the Colombian Amazonian primate Plecturocebus caquetensis. This study obtained morphometric data, validated in previous investigations, based on ten variables of the proximal region, eleven of the distal region five general variables of the femur, five of the tibia and four of the fibula. The investigation used structures from legal biological collections in Colombia to avoid unnecessary and unethical captures, as the species is critically endangered. Result: Significant differences were found between the right and left sides of the femur, tibia and fibula. Variables such as diaphysis length, axis, morphological lengthand biomechanical length of the tibia, maximum tibia and maximum fibula, present higher standard deviation values. These differences are due to the traction generated by the muscles inserted in these areas, which is influenced by external stimuli from the environment or physical surroundings.