Sexual dimorphism in Kinosternon scorpioides (Linnaeus, 1766) from the Brazilian Amazon

Dimorfismo sexual em Kinosternon scorpioides (Linnaeus, 1766) da Amazônia brasileira.

Abstract

The sexual dimorphism of the Kinosternon scorpioides was evaluated using two different techniques (linear and geometric morphometry) from images and linear measurements of the carapace and plastron of adults (male and female). Linear morphometry indicated that the height and width of carapace and plastron are statistically different between sexes, with females being wider and taller. In the evaluation of geometric morphometry, ANOVA demonstrated variation in the size of the plastron and the shape of the carapace and plastron, expressing a tendency in shape for each sex. Sexual dimorphism, therefore, is verified for this species, notably by the plastron. This study indicates an additional tool for the phenotypic knowledge of animals, contributing to the study of threatened populations.

Keywords:
turtle; morphometry; Amazon; wildlife