Variation and correlation patterns in the dentition of the red fox from Poland

Abstract

Szuma, E. 2000: Variation and correlation patterns in the dentition of the red fox from Poland. — Ann. Zool. Fennici 37: 113–127. Analysis of variation in tooth size in a population of red fox, Vulpes vulpes (Linnaeus, 1758) from Poland based on three indices (coefficient of variation CV, variation index VSD, residual standard deviation RSD) and its correlation with average tooth size revealed two contradictory patterns. The CV and VSD were significantly correlated with average tooth sizes, while RSD values was independent. It was, therefore, concluded that RSD is the most reliable index for assessing population variation. The least variable position in the red fox dentition are M 1 and M1, whereas the most variable is M3. The strongest sexual dimorphism in tooth size in Polish red foxes is observed in the canines. The strongest between-tooth correlations were in the premolar region. Moreover, a strong correlation in both tooth length and tooth width was found between opposite canines. Both functional and developmental factors determine patterns of morphological variation in the dentition.