Gulper, ripper and scrapper: anatomy of the neck in three species of vultures. Issue 4 (29th December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Böhmer, Christine; Prevoteau, Jocerand; Duriez, Olivier; Abourachid, Anick
• Is Part Of: Journal of anatomy. Volume 236:Issue 4(2020)
• Page Start: 701
• Page End: 723
• Publication Date: 2019-12-29
• Subjects: birds -- craniocervical anatomy -- ecology -- muscular adaptations -- scavengers; Anatomy -- Periodicals; 571.3
• DOI: 10.1111/joa.13129
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0021-8782

Abstract

Abstract: The head−neck system of birds is a highly complex structure that performs a variety of demanding and competing tasks. Morphofunctional adaptations to feeding specializations have previously been identified in the head and neck, but performance is also influenced by other factors such as its phylogenetic history. In order to minimize the effects of this factor, we here analyzed the anatomy of three closely related vultures that distinctly differ in feeding strategy. Vultures, as obligate scavengers, have occupied a special ecological niche by exclusively feeding on carrion. However, competition among sympatric vultures led to ecological differences such as preference of certain types of food from a carcass. Via comparative dissections we systematically described the craniocervical anatomy in the Griffon vulture ( Gyps fulvus ), the Cinereous vulture ( Aegypius monachus ) and the Hooded vulture ( Necrosyrtes monachus ) that exploit the same food resources in different ways. Our results revealed differences in the number of cervical vertebrae, in the morphology of the atlas−axis complex as well as in the neck musculature despite overall similarities in the musculoskeletal system. Gulpers, rippers and scrappers adopt specific postures while feeding from a carcass, but the cervical vertebral column is indispensable to position the head during all kinds of behavior. The great range of demands may explain the conservation of the overall muscle topography of the neck across the studied taxa. Abstract : Vultures, as obligate scavengers, have occupied a special ecological niche by exclusively feeding on carrion. Competition among sympatric taxa led to preference of certain types of food from a carcass. Via comparative dissections we systematically described the anatomy of the head−neck system in three sympatric species of vultures representing gulpers, rippers and scrappers. The overall muscle topography is conserved, but we found differences in the musculoskeletal system that may reflect functional adaptations to the specific feeding habits.