Osteo-morphometric Approach to the Heads of Dromedaries (Camelus dromedarius, L, 1758): Case of the Algerian Targui Population

Abstract

Background: This study, conducted on a sample of 60 bones, provides an in-depth analysis of the main characteristics of dromedary skulls, their variability and the correlations between their various parts. These data have made it possible to isolate measurements that could provide a general overview in camel craniometry. This area lacks research and this work, by focusing on sexual dimorphism, which is an important diagnostic factor, aims to deepen the understanding of the Targui population in the Ouargla region of Algeria. Methods: This study comprising a total of 30 males and 30 females Targui, organized into 4 groups: 15 young adult males (aged 5 to 9 years), 15 adult males (over 10 years), 15 young adult females (aged 5 to 9 years) and 15 adult females (over 10 years). The skulls are collected after slaughter. Each cranium was weighed and then measured using a caliper (15 linear measurements: 7 length measurements, 6 width measurements, 2 skull height measurements). The data underwent univariate, bivariate and multivariate statistical analysis. Results: For each measured variable, males are larger than females. The lateral width of the neurocranium CL5 shows the highest level of sexual dimorphism with an index close to 55%, followed by weight, which reaches 28.74%. This dimorphism is clear in the skull: males not only have larger bones but also longer ones, as is the case with cattle. This is a significant difference compared to other ruminants such as sheep or goats, where bone length is not a dimorphic parameter.