title: Osteology of the thoracic limb of the African elephant (Loxodonta africana).
abstract: The forelimb bones of 8 elephants (7 adults, 1 juvenile) were studied. In addition, the bones of the digits were dissected and studied in situ in a mature specimen. The scapula, humerus and bones of the antebrachium (particularly the ulna) are massive in comparison to the short, relatively small bones of the manus. There are 8 carpal bones, 5 metacarpal bones and 5 digits. Digits 2-4 consist of 3 phalanges each. The 5th digit consists of 2 phalanges, while the 1st is represented by a single phalanx which is tusk-like and pointed. The distal phalanges of digits 2-4 are very small and do not articulate with the middle phalanges. The proximal sesamoids are well developed and are present on the palmar aspect of all 5 metacarpophalangeal joints. All the bones are illustrated from at least 2 aspects.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa.
authors.forename: M M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Smuts
authors.forename: A J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Bezuidenhout
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D004606:Elephants / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D005552:Forelimb; D012540:Scapula / Q000033:anatomy & histology