Anatomical conundrum of spotted hyena

Anatomical conundrum of spotted hyena

by | Mar 9, 2016 | Biobullets

Crocuta crocuta photo © David Bygott   Anatomical conundrum of spotted hyena The peniform clitoris of the spotted hyena is unique among mammals in its tubular form and function. However, the crucial puzzle in this species is not why the clitoris is so phallic but why...
Extinct quagga a dark horse at several levels

Extinct quagga a dark horse at several levels

by | Mar 9, 2016 | Biobullets

Equus quagga quagga photo © Frederick York Extinct quagga a dark horse at several levels The extinct quagga was mainly brown, offset by whitish forelegs. This contrast suggests that, unlike all other zebras but like Asian wild asses, its pigmentation was adapted to...
Achilles’ heel of a killing cursor

Achilles’ heel of a killing cursor

by | Mar 9, 2016 | Biobullets

Crocuta crocuta photo © NH53 Achilles’ heel of a killing cursor The spotted hyena is specialised for cantering in the open, with endurance unrivalled by any other terrestrial carnivore. However, its Achilles’ heel is the looseness of its ankles and the...
Perversion of bids to re-breed extinct quagga

Perversion of bids to re-breed extinct quagga

by | Mar 9, 2016 | Biobullets

Equus quagga burchellii, artificially bred phenotype with minimal striping, photo © The Voice of America Perversion of bids to re-breed extinct quagga The quagga was the least-striped of zebras but also the darkest. Attempts to recapture the appearance of this...