identifier	taxonID	type	CVterm	format	language	title	description	additionalInformationURL	UsageTerms	rights	Owner	contributor	creator	bibliographicCitation
32775073FFF0FF898EF0FA5723AFFD02.text	32775073FFF0FF898EF0FA5723AFFD02.taxon	http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text	http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#GeneralDescription	text/html	en	Micropotamogale lamottei Heim de Balsac 1954	<div><p>Micropotamogale lamottei (IZEA 939)</p> <p>The vomeronasal organ of Micropotamogale is approximately 3.5 mm in length and does not reach as far posteriorly as the first ethmoturbinal; in an adult specimen (IZEA 939) it extends only as far back as a frontal plane posterior to the canines and anterior to the anteriormost premolars (slice 48.3.2). In this specimen (IZEA 939) the vomeronasal organ comprises about 13% of nasal fossa length (ca. 26 mm) and 7% of head length (ca. 50 mm). Fetal specimens (i.e., AIG 2273–1, 2273–3) show a more elongate vomeronasal organ, but still shorter than that seen in a Potamogale of comparable age (table 2). No major blood vessels are apparent coursing along the length of the vomeronasal organ; instead, numerous smaller vessels are visible.</p> <p>Most of the support for the vomeronasal organ along its length is ossified, although some paraseptal cartilage remains ventral and lateral to the organ. In this regard, Micropotamogale resembles the specimens of Geogale described below. This is due to the advanced ontogenetic stage represented by the IZEA 939 Micropotamogale and all Geogale individuals (all showing fully erupted teeth).</p> <p>Anteriorly, the cartilaginous outer bar does not cover the vomeronasal organ laterally. The vomeronasal ducts are apparent at the anterior extreme of the vomeronasal organ, consisting of tubes on either side of the nasal septum that empty into each nasopalatine duct, separated from the nasal fossa proper (e.g., slice 31.3.2). Elongate, thin cartilages support each nasopalatine duct laterally, and line the posterior margins of each incisive foramen (e.g., slice 32.1.2; fig. 27). These cartilages are not connected to other nasal floor or septal cartilages. The palatine papilla of Micropotamogale is dorsoventrally elongate, defined by each nasopalatine duct laterally (slice 32.1.2; fig. 27).</p> <p>Anterior to the incisive foramina and dorsal to the premaxilla, the anterior transverse lamina is evident (slice 21.3.2) and shows no connection with paraseptal cartilages.</p> <p>Immediately anterior to the premaxilla, the nasal cartilages form an uninterrupted ring, or zona annularis, connecting the nasal sidewall, floor, and roof (slice 17.3.1).</p> <p>As in Potamogale, and in concordance with the observation that a lacrimal foramen is reduced in adult Micropotamogale skulls (Asher, 1999), Micropotamogale shows no nasolacrimal duct. Both potamogalines do, however, possess a duct for the lateral nasal gland that travels from the posterolateral nasal fossa anteriorly, ventral to the nasoturbi­ nate (e.g., slice 35.3.2; see fig. 26 for the same structure in Erinaceus).</p> <p>Well anterior to the nasopalatine ducts and the posterior margin of the anterior transverse lamina, the superior and inferior septal ridges are apparent (slice 10.3.1). Neither pair of ridges shows cartilaginous support.</p> <p>The superior alar processes of Micropotamogale are smaller than those of Potamogale and do not extend far posterior or lateral to the nasal cupula. They originate posteriorly from the lateral margin of the anterior nasal floor (slice 7.1.2). No dorsal projections are evident on the anterior cartilaginous nose in the available adult specimens (IZEA 939), but they are evident in embryos (AIG 2273–1, 2273–3).</p> <p>Geogale aurita (MCZ 45499; fig. 28)</p> <p>The vomeronasal organ of Geogale is small compared to that of Potamogale. Its anteriormost point is directly over the posterior margin of the palatine papilla. Instead of traversing a large portion of the nasal floor as in Potamogale, the vomeronasal organ tapers to a posterior terminus at about the same transverse plane as the third upper incisor— roughly 1 mm posterior to its starting point. In the postnatal MCZ 45499, it comprises about 10% of nasal capsule length (about 10 mm) and 8% of head length (14 mm). Proportions are similar in the larger ZIUT individual (SVL 43 mm): the 1.2­mm vomeronasal organ comprises 9% of nasal capsule length (14.3 mm) and 6% of head length (21 mm).</p> <p>The vomeronasal organ itself is kidneyshaped and laterally concave. Blood vessels are conspicuous dorsolateral and ventromedial to the vomeronasal organ. The paraseptal cartilages are most evident ventral to the vomeronasal organ along its length and are reduced medially. Relative to other animals examined here, there is very little space between the vomeronasal organ on each side of the septum. In other taxa, a dorsally extending flange of the paraseptal cartilage contributes to the space separating each half of the paired vomeronasal organ, whereas in Geogale bony elements of the nasal septum are evident medial to the vomeronasal organ (compare figs. 24 and 29 or slices 14.2.4 of Potamogale and 8.5.5 of Geogale). This may be due to the advanced ontogenetic stage and consequent resorption of cartilage in the available Geogale specimens.</p> <p>At the anterior margin of the vomeronasal organ of Geogale, just dorsal to the nasopal­ atine duct, a small outer bar connects the ventrolateral and ventromedial components of the paraseptal cartilage, lying dorsal to the vomeronasal duct (e.g., slice 8.1.5; figs. 28, 29).</p> <p>Posterior to the anterior margin of the first upper incisors and continuing through the length of the premaxilla, the cartilaginous nasal septum consists of a single anteroposteriorly running cylinder, surrounded by ossifications of the premaxilla (slice 11.2.3). In this region the septum lacks a connection to the nasal roof. This condition may simply be a result of resorption of cartilage in a relatively well­ossified postnatal individual, an interpretation supported by the observation that other adult specimens (e.g., IZEA 939 and AIG 1227 Micropotamogale and ZIUT Sorex) also lack a cartilaginous septum­roof connection in parts of the nasal fossa.</p> <p>At its anterior margin, the vomeronasal organ gives off a well­defined vomeronasal duct (slice 8.2.3; fig. 29), which enters the nasopalatine canal dorsally as the latter opens into the nasal fossa proper. As in most other taxa described here, the nasopalatine canal is paired, opening on either side of a well­defined palatine papilla (slice 7.5.5). A very small nasopalatine duct cartilage is evident along the lateral margin of the incisive foramina (slice 8.5.1), which shows no connection to other nasal cartilages.</p> <p>Within the palatine papilla is a cartilaginous body (slice 8.1.4; fig. 29), ending anteriorly in two points. Although ubiquitous among marsupials (Sánchez­Villagra, 2001), this papillary cartilage has been observed in relatively few placental taxa, such as Elephantulus and Tupaia (Wöhrmann­Repenning, 1984, 1987).</p> <p>Just anterior to the rostral openings of the vomeronasal ducts is the inferior septal ridge, a laterally projecting flap of epithelial tissue, closely associated with the posterior margin of the anterior transverse lamina (slice 7.2.4). This structure extends ventrolaterally out from the posterior tip of the medial arm of the anterior transverse lamina, and supports both glandular and olfactory tissue.</p> <p>The lack of prominent medial processes of the paraseptal cartilage contributes to the absence of a connection between it and the anterior transverse lamina. That is, the nasal cavity floor anterior to the vomeronasal duct is not broadly continuous with the paraseptal cartilage.</p> <p>Geogale also displays a complete zona annularis, that is, continuity between the nasal septum, anterior transverse lamina, and nasal sidewall for a short distance immediately an­ terior to the first upper incisor (e.g., slice 4.4.3).</p> <p>Geogale exhibits relatively large superior alar processes, located just posterior to the external nares, that serve as the site of origin of several facial muscles (e.g., slice 3.4.4). The alar processes are broadly connected to the nasal floor ventrally and show a narrow alicupular commissure anteriorly.</p> </div>	http://treatment.plazi.org/id/32775073FFF0FF898EF0FA5723AFFD02	Public Domain	No known copyright restrictions apply. See Agosti, D., Egloff, W., 2009. Taxonomic information exchange and copyright: the Plazi approach. BMC Research Notes 2009, 2:53 for further explanation.		Plazi	ASHER, ROBERT J.	ASHER, ROBERT J. (2001): Cranial Anatomy in Tenrecid Insectivorans: Character Evolution Across Competing Phylogenies. American Museum Novitates 3352: 1-55, DOI: 10.1206/0003-0082(2001)352<0001:CAITIC>2.0.CO;2, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1206/0003-0082%282001%29352%3C0001%3ACAITIC%3E2.0.CO%3B2
32775073FFCFFF8B8F08FD5D246AFE6C.text	32775073FFCFFF8B8F08FD5D246AFE6C.taxon	http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text	http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#GeneralDescription	text/html	en	Geogale aurita Milne-Edwards & A. Grandidier 1872	<div><p>Geogale aurita (MCZ 45499; fig. 28)</p> <p>The vomeronasal organ of Geogale is small compared to that of Potamogale. Its anteriormost point is directly over the posterior margin of the palatine papilla. Instead of traversing a large portion of the nasal floor as in Potamogale, the vomeronasal organ tapers to a posterior terminus at about the same transverse plane as the third upper incisor— roughly 1 mm posterior to its starting point. In the postnatal MCZ 45499, it comprises about 10% of nasal capsule length (about 10 mm) and 8% of head length (14 mm). Proportions are similar in the larger ZIUT individual (SVL 43 mm): the 1.2­mm vomeronasal organ comprises 9% of nasal capsule length (14.3 mm) and 6% of head length (21 mm).</p> <p>The vomeronasal organ itself is kidneyshaped and laterally concave. Blood vessels are conspicuous dorsolateral and ventromedial to the vomeronasal organ. The paraseptal cartilages are most evident ventral to the vomeronasal organ along its length and are reduced medially. Relative to other animals examined here, there is very little space between the vomeronasal organ on each side of the septum. In other taxa, a dorsally extending flange of the paraseptal cartilage contributes to the space separating each half of the paired vomeronasal organ, whereas in Geogale bony elements of the nasal septum are evident medial to the vomeronasal organ (compare figs. 24 and 29 or slices 14.2.4 of Potamogale and 8.5.5 of Geogale). This may be due to the advanced ontogenetic stage and consequent resorption of cartilage in the available Geogale specimens.</p> <p>At the anterior margin of the vomeronasal organ of Geogale, just dorsal to the nasopal­ atine duct, a small outer bar connects the ventrolateral and ventromedial components of the paraseptal cartilage, lying dorsal to the vomeronasal duct (e.g., slice 8.1.5; figs. 28, 29).</p> <p>Posterior to the anterior margin of the first upper incisors and continuing through the length of the premaxilla, the cartilaginous nasal septum consists of a single anteroposteriorly running cylinder, surrounded by ossifications of the premaxilla (slice 11.2.3). In this region the septum lacks a connection to the nasal roof. This condition may simply be a result of resorption of cartilage in a relatively well­ossified postnatal individual, an interpretation supported by the observation that other adult specimens (e.g., IZEA 939 and AIG 1227 Micropotamogale and ZIUT Sorex) also lack a cartilaginous septum­roof connection in parts of the nasal fossa.</p> <p>At its anterior margin, the vomeronasal organ gives off a well­defined vomeronasal duct (slice 8.2.3; fig. 29), which enters the nasopalatine canal dorsally as the latter opens into the nasal fossa proper. As in most other taxa described here, the nasopalatine canal is paired, opening on either side of a well­defined palatine papilla (slice 7.5.5). A very small nasopalatine duct cartilage is evident along the lateral margin of the incisive foramina (slice 8.5.1), which shows no connection to other nasal cartilages.</p> <p>Within the palatine papilla is a cartilaginous body (slice 8.1.4; fig. 29), ending anteriorly in two points. Although ubiquitous among marsupials (Sánchez­Villagra, 2001), this papillary cartilage has been observed in relatively few placental taxa, such as Elephantulus and Tupaia (Wöhrmann­Repenning, 1984, 1987).</p> <p>Just anterior to the rostral openings of the vomeronasal ducts is the inferior septal ridge, a laterally projecting flap of epithelial tissue, closely associated with the posterior margin of the anterior transverse lamina (slice 7.2.4). This structure extends ventrolaterally out from the posterior tip of the medial arm of the anterior transverse lamina, and supports both glandular and olfactory tissue.</p> <p>The lack of prominent medial processes of the paraseptal cartilage contributes to the absence of a connection between it and the anterior transverse lamina. That is, the nasal cavity floor anterior to the vomeronasal duct is not broadly continuous with the paraseptal cartilage.</p> <p>Geogale also displays a complete zona annularis, that is, continuity between the nasal septum, anterior transverse lamina, and nasal sidewall for a short distance immediately an­ terior to the first upper incisor (e.g., slice 4.4.3).</p> <p>Geogale exhibits relatively large superior alar processes, located just posterior to the external nares, that serve as the site of origin of several facial muscles (e.g., slice 3.4.4). The alar processes are broadly connected to the nasal floor ventrally and show a narrow alicupular commissure anteriorly.</p> </div>	http://treatment.plazi.org/id/32775073FFCFFF8B8F08FD5D246AFE6C	Public Domain	No known copyright restrictions apply. See Agosti, D., Egloff, W., 2009. Taxonomic information exchange and copyright: the Plazi approach. BMC Research Notes 2009, 2:53 for further explanation.		Plazi	ASHER, ROBERT J.	ASHER, ROBERT J. (2001): Cranial Anatomy in Tenrecid Insectivorans: Character Evolution Across Competing Phylogenies. American Museum Novitates 3352: 1-55, DOI: 10.1206/0003-0082(2001)352<0001:CAITIC>2.0.CO;2, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1206/0003-0082%282001%29352%3C0001%3ACAITIC%3E2.0.CO%3B2
32775073FFCDFF8B8EE1FE6A233CF962.text	32775073FFCDFF8B8EE1FE6A233CF962.taxon	http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text	http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#GeneralDescription	text/html	en	Microgale dobsoni Thomas 1884	<div><p>Microgale dobsoni (MPIH 1964/104)</p> <p>The vomeronasal organ of Microgale is about 1.2 mm in length and extends posteriorly to a point close, but still anterior, to the first ethmoturbinal. It comprises roughly 14% of nasal fossa length (8.4 mm) and 8% of head length (15 mm). A large vein courses lateral to the vomeronasal organ on each side and forms the axis around which the organ has a kidney­shaped appearance (e.g., slice 280).</p> <p>A J­shaped paraseptal cartilage supports the vomeronasal organ throughout its length, but at no point does the outer bar completely enclose the vomeronasal organ laterally. Anteriorly, the paired vomeronasal organ empties into the superior margin of each nasopalatine duct (slice 244; fig. 30). The nasopalatine canal is paired and connects the oral and nasal cavities on either side of the palatine papilla (slice 240). Lateral to the nasopalatine duct, an isolated nasopalatine duct cartilage is present (slice 244; fig. 30), showing no connection to other cartilages.</p> <p>Immediately anterior to the nasopalatine duct, the inferior septal ridge is evident and is supported in part by the cartilage of the anterior transverse lamina (slice 220). The latter cartilage has a very narrow posterior connection to the paraseptal cartilage, dorsal to the frontal plane in which the nasopalatine ducts connect the oral and nasal cavities (slice 240).</p> <p>Anterior to the premaxilla, a complete zona annularis is evident, connecting the nasal floor, sidewalls, and roof (slice 140). The superior alar cartilages of the external nose are evident in slice 80 and show a connection to the anterior nasal floor. Unlike the external nose of Potamogale (fig. 23A), no superiorly projecting cartilaginous spur is evident dorsally.</p> </div>	http://treatment.plazi.org/id/32775073FFCDFF8B8EE1FE6A233CF962	Public Domain	No known copyright restrictions apply. See Agosti, D., Egloff, W., 2009. Taxonomic information exchange and copyright: the Plazi approach. BMC Research Notes 2009, 2:53 for further explanation.		Plazi	ASHER, ROBERT J.	ASHER, ROBERT J. (2001): Cranial Anatomy in Tenrecid Insectivorans: Character Evolution Across Competing Phylogenies. American Museum Novitates 3352: 1-55, DOI: 10.1206/0003-0082(2001)352<0001:CAITIC>2.0.CO;2, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1206/0003-0082%282001%29352%3C0001%3ACAITIC%3E2.0.CO%3B2
32775073FFCCFF8D8EDEFE372318FDB4.text	32775073FFCCFF8D8EDEFE372318FDB4.taxon	http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text	http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#GeneralDescription	text/html	en	Setifer setosus (Schreber 1778)	<div><p>Setifer setosus (ZIUT, celloidin­embedded individual)</p> <p>The vomeronasal organ of this adult Setifer specimen extends approximately 5 mm posteriorly beyond the premaxilla, to the level of the first premolars (slice 75.2.1). Unfortunately, length estimates for the nasal fossa and head of this specimen are unavailable. One particularly large blood vessel lies lateral to the vomeronasal organ along most of its length; numerous other vessels of moderate caliber are also evident scattered throughout the organ (e.g., slice 64.1.1).</p> <p>The paraseptal cartilage borders the vomeronasal organ ventrally and medially throughout its length. In some sections it extends lateral to the vomeronasal organ (e.g., slice 57.2.1), but the paraseptal cartilage does not give off an outer bar that passes dorsal to the vomeronasal organ or the vomeronasal duct.</p> <p>At its anterior margin the vomeronasal organ grades into the vomeronasal duct, which enters the nasopalatine duct ventral to and separate from the nasal fossa (slice 48.1.1). The nasopalatine canal of Setifer leaves the nasal fossa paired; farther ventrally, however, Setifer resembles Echinops in that the canals on each side join with each other to form a single canal that opens into the oral cavity (slice 38.1.1; see also Hofer, 1982a). A very small nasopalatine duct cartilage is evident connected with the paraseptal cartilage (e.g., 48.3.1).</p> <p>Anterior to the vomeronasal organ, the paraseptal cartilage ends, showing no continuity with the anterior transverse lamina. The posterior margin of the anterior transverse lamina supports the inferior septal ridge, extending out from the nasal septum, just dorsal and anterior to the nasal openings of the nasopalatine ducts (slice 47.2.1).</p> <p>Anterior to the premaxilla, the nasal floor descends relative to the roof, greatly increas­ ing the volume within the nasal cupula (compare slices 35.2.1 and 25.2.1). In this region, Setifer shows a broad continuity, or zona annularis, between the nasal septum, floor, and sidewall.</p> <p>The superior alar processes are relatively narrow, showing only a short connection with the anterior nasal floor and no connection with the anterior nasal cupula. However, the alar processes do provide attachments for small muscles of the rhinarium (e.g., slice 13.2.1).</p></div> 	http://treatment.plazi.org/id/32775073FFCCFF8D8EDEFE372318FDB4	Public Domain	No known copyright restrictions apply. See Agosti, D., Egloff, W., 2009. Taxonomic information exchange and copyright: the Plazi approach. BMC Research Notes 2009, 2:53 for further explanation.		Plazi	ASHER, ROBERT J.	ASHER, ROBERT J. (2001): Cranial Anatomy in Tenrecid Insectivorans: Character Evolution Across Competing Phylogenies. American Museum Novitates 3352: 1-55, DOI: 10.1206/0003-0082(2001)352<0001:CAITIC>2.0.CO;2, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1206/0003-0082%282001%29352%3C0001%3ACAITIC%3E2.0.CO%3B2
32775073FFCCFF8A8CBCFF45248DFE27.text	32775073FFCCFF8A8CBCFF45248DFE27.taxon	http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text	http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#GeneralDescription	text/html	en	Echinops telfairi Martin 1838	<div><p>Echinops telfairi (ZIUT, HL 18 mm)</p> <p>The posterior margin of the paraseptal cartilage in Echinops is coincident with the anterior margin of the first ethmoturbinal (slice 15.2.4); the vomeronasal organ itself appears a fraction of a millimeter farther anteriorly (slice 14.2.2). Rostrally, the vomeronasal organ terminates over the posterior incisive foramina. The vomeronasal organ (approximately 1.6 mm long) comprises 17% of nasal capsule length (9.5 mm) and 9% of head length (18 mm). Two venous channels are evident dorsolateral and ventromedial to the vomeronasal organ on each side (e.g., slice 11.3.4), each of which gives off several small branches toward the inferior part of the nasal septum.</p> <p>The anterior paraseptal cartilage curves around the vomeronasal organ laterally (slice 10.5.4), but does not possess an outer bar passing dorsal to the vomeronasal organ or vomeronasal duct. The vomeronasal duct empties directly into the nasopalatine duct, well separated from the nasal cavity proper (slice 9.3.6). Farther anteriorly, the paired nasopalatine duct appears very atypical, as the conduits on each side coalesce with one another into a single channel that opens into the oral cavity (slice 8.3.6; fig. 31). As a result, the typical mammalian inverted mushroomshaped palatine papilla is absent. This condition has been previously documented in Echinops and Setifer by Hofer (1982a). Cartilages supporting the nasopalatine duct are small; only a minor cartilaginous center is evident along the lateral margin of the incisive foramen. The paraseptal cartilage does not show a significant anterior continuity with the anterior transverse lamina (slice 9.5.5).</p> <p>Just anterior to the incisive foramina and dorsal to part of the nasopalatine duct, anteroposteriorly running ridges on either side of the septum are evident (slice 9.2.5). The posterior margin of the anterior transverse lamina provides cartilaginous support for these inferior septal ridges. Farther anteriorly, bulges on each side of the nasal septum comprise the ‘‘superior’’ septal ridges, which have no cartilaginous support and contain glandular tissue (slice 5.1.5). Also in this re­ gion of the anterior nose, a complete zona annularis is evident.</p> <p>Adjacent to the anterior termination of the nasolacrimal duct, the superior alar processes originate from the nasal sidewall and extend dorsolaterally (slice 3.6.4). No connection with the anterior nasal cupula is apparent.</p> <p>Setifer setosus (ZIUT, celloidin­embedded individual)</p> <p>The vomeronasal organ of this adult Setifer specimen extends approximately 5 mm posteriorly beyond the premaxilla, to the level of the first premolars (slice 75.2.1). Unfortunately, length estimates for the nasal fossa and head of this specimen are unavailable. One particularly large blood vessel lies lateral to the vomeronasal organ along most of its length; numerous other vessels of moderate caliber are also evident scattered throughout the organ (e.g., slice 64.1.1).</p> <p>The paraseptal cartilage borders the vomeronasal organ ventrally and medially throughout its length. In some sections it extends lateral to the vomeronasal organ (e.g., slice 57.2.1), but the paraseptal cartilage does not give off an outer bar that passes dorsal to the vomeronasal organ or the vomeronasal duct.</p> <p>At its anterior margin the vomeronasal organ grades into the vomeronasal duct, which enters the nasopalatine duct ventral to and separate from the nasal fossa (slice 48.1.1). The nasopalatine canal of Setifer leaves the nasal fossa paired; farther ventrally, however, Setifer resembles Echinops in that the canals on each side join with each other to form a single canal that opens into the oral cavity (slice 38.1.1; see also Hofer, 1982a). A very small nasopalatine duct cartilage is evident connected with the paraseptal cartilage (e.g., 48.3.1).</p> <p>Anterior to the vomeronasal organ, the paraseptal cartilage ends, showing no continuity with the anterior transverse lamina. The posterior margin of the anterior transverse lamina supports the inferior septal ridge, extending out from the nasal septum, just dorsal and anterior to the nasal openings of the nasopalatine ducts (slice 47.2.1).</p> <p>Anterior to the premaxilla, the nasal floor descends relative to the roof, greatly increas­ ing the volume within the nasal cupula (compare slices 35.2.1 and 25.2.1). In this region, Setifer shows a broad continuity, or zona annularis, between the nasal septum, floor, and sidewall.</p> <p>The superior alar processes are relatively narrow, showing only a short connection with the anterior nasal floor and no connection with the anterior nasal cupula. However, the alar processes do provide attachments for small muscles of the rhinarium (e.g., slice 13.2.1).</p> <p>Tenrec ecaudatus (ZIUT, HL 20 mm; fig. 32)</p> <p>Posteriorly, the vomeronasal organ and paraseptal cartilages extend to the upper canines. The vomeronasal organ itself measures approximately 1.5 mm in length. This makes up 14% of nasal fossa length (10.2 mm) and 7.5% of head length (20 mm). Several small blood vessels are apparent running parallel to the vomeronasal organ.</p> <p>The paraseptal cartilage lies medial to the vomeronasal organ along its entire length and does not exhibit a complete outer bar laterally (fig. 32). The vomeronasal ducts are narrow, anterior continuations of each vomeronasal organ tube, emptying into the nasopalatine canal at a point well­separated from the nasal fossa (slice 7.5.1). A large palatine papilla is evident medial to the nasopalatine ducts as they open into the oral cavity.</p> <p>A nasopalatine duct cartilage is present lateral to the nasopalatine ducts and is connected to both the paraseptal cartilage dorsomedially and the ‘‘nasopalatine duct’’ cartilage medially (slice 8.2.4; fig. 33). Kuhn (1971: 30) noted that confusion exists regarding the definitions of the ‘‘palatine’’ and ‘‘nasopalatine duct’’ cartilages; in some taxa (including Tenrec), the two are continuous anteriorly. As defined in previous studies (e.g., Maier, 1980), they are at least distinguishable posteriorly; the palatine cartilage exists lateral, and the nasopalatine duct cartilage medial, to the nasopalatine duct itself.</p> <p>Anterior to the nasopalatine canal is the inferior septal ridge, supported medially by the superior arm of the anterior transverse lamina and containing olfactory epithelium (slice 6.1.1). The medial arm of the anteriormost paraseptal cartilage has a narrow connection with the anterior transverse lamina. The connection between the nasal septum, floor, and sidewall in Tenrec is constricted, but present, at the point just anterior to the premaxilla and where the nasolacrimal duct enters the nasal fossa (slice 4.4.5).</p> <p>A feature of the external nose that Tenrec shares with Setifer is the abrupt inferior extension of the anterior nasal floor, greatly enlarging the surface area available for olfactory epithelium in the anterior nose (slice 5.3.1). In Tenrec, the narrow superior alar processes originate from this ventrally extended nasal floor, and show no commissura alicupularis connecting them to the anterior nasal cupulae.</p> </div>	http://treatment.plazi.org/id/32775073FFCCFF8A8CBCFF45248DFE27	Public Domain	No known copyright restrictions apply. See Agosti, D., Egloff, W., 2009. Taxonomic information exchange and copyright: the Plazi approach. BMC Research Notes 2009, 2:53 for further explanation.		Plazi	ASHER, ROBERT J.	ASHER, ROBERT J. (2001): Cranial Anatomy in Tenrecid Insectivorans: Character Evolution Across Competing Phylogenies. American Museum Novitates 3352: 1-55, DOI: 10.1206/0003-0082(2001)352<0001:CAITIC>2.0.CO;2, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1206/0003-0082%282001%29352%3C0001%3ACAITIC%3E2.0.CO%3B2
32775073FFCBFF8F8EF8FDC22116FF5A.text	32775073FFCBFF8F8EF8FDC22116FF5A.taxon	http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text	http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#GeneralDescription	text/html	en	Tenrec ecaudatus (Schreber 1778)	<div><p>Tenrec ecaudatus (ZIUT, HL 20 mm; fig. 32)</p> <p>Posteriorly, the vomeronasal organ and paraseptal cartilages extend to the upper canines. The vomeronasal organ itself measures approximately 1.5 mm in length. This makes up 14% of nasal fossa length (10.2 mm) and 7.5% of head length (20 mm). Several small blood vessels are apparent running parallel to the vomeronasal organ.</p> <p>The paraseptal cartilage lies medial to the vomeronasal organ along its entire length and does not exhibit a complete outer bar laterally (fig. 32). The vomeronasal ducts are narrow, anterior continuations of each vomeronasal organ tube, emptying into the nasopalatine canal at a point well­separated from the nasal fossa (slice 7.5.1). A large palatine papilla is evident medial to the nasopalatine ducts as they open into the oral cavity.</p> <p>A nasopalatine duct cartilage is present lateral to the nasopalatine ducts and is connected to both the paraseptal cartilage dorsomedially and the ‘‘nasopalatine duct’’ cartilage medially (slice 8.2.4; fig. 33). Kuhn (1971: 30) noted that confusion exists regarding the definitions of the ‘‘palatine’’ and ‘‘nasopalatine duct’’ cartilages; in some taxa (including Tenrec), the two are continuous anteriorly. As defined in previous studies (e.g., Maier, 1980), they are at least distinguishable posteriorly; the palatine cartilage exists lateral, and the nasopalatine duct cartilage medial, to the nasopalatine duct itself.</p> <p>Anterior to the nasopalatine canal is the inferior septal ridge, supported medially by the superior arm of the anterior transverse lamina and containing olfactory epithelium (slice 6.1.1). The medial arm of the anteriormost paraseptal cartilage has a narrow connection with the anterior transverse lamina. The connection between the nasal septum, floor, and sidewall in Tenrec is constricted, but present, at the point just anterior to the premaxilla and where the nasolacrimal duct enters the nasal fossa (slice 4.4.5).</p> <p>A feature of the external nose that Tenrec shares with Setifer is the abrupt inferior extension of the anterior nasal floor, greatly enlarging the surface area available for olfactory epithelium in the anterior nose (slice 5.3.1). In Tenrec, the narrow superior alar processes originate from this ventrally extended nasal floor, and show no commissura alicupularis connecting them to the anterior nasal cupulae.</p> </div>	http://treatment.plazi.org/id/32775073FFCBFF8F8EF8FDC22116FF5A	Public Domain	No known copyright restrictions apply. See Agosti, D., Egloff, W., 2009. Taxonomic information exchange and copyright: the Plazi approach. BMC Research Notes 2009, 2:53 for further explanation.		Plazi	ASHER, ROBERT J.	ASHER, ROBERT J. (2001): Cranial Anatomy in Tenrecid Insectivorans: Character Evolution Across Competing Phylogenies. American Museum Novitates 3352: 1-55, DOI: 10.1206/0003-0082(2001)352<0001:CAITIC>2.0.CO;2, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1206/0003-0082%282001%29352%3C0001%3ACAITIC%3E2.0.CO%3B2
32775073FFC9FF8F8CCEFEA42367FD02.text	32775073FFC9FF8F8CCEFEA42367FD02.taxon	http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text	http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#GeneralDescription	text/html	en	Solenodon paradoxus (ZIUT)	<div><p>Solenodon paradoxus (ZIUT)</p> <p>Despite the enormous length of the Solenodon anterior nose, the vomeronasal organ is not elaborate. The vomeronasal organ is in fact quite small, failing to extend farther posteriorly than the row of upper incisors. Unfortunately, the available Solenodon specimen is only partially sectioned through the midrostrum, leaving no means of precisely inferring the nasal capsule or head length in this specimen. However, it is likely that the vomeronasal organ of Solenodon comprises a very small percentage of nasal capsule and head length, given the great size of the latter two structures in this genus. No major blood vessels are evident coursing adjacent to the vomeronasal organ.</p> <p>The paraseptal cartilages are relatively small J­shaped structures that, as in most oth­ er mammals described here, course medially along most of the length of the vomeronasal organ (e.g., slice 110.3.1). At its anterior end, Solenodon shows a small outer bar which does not enclose the vomeronasal organ laterally, but ends in a free process. At the anterior margin of the vomeronasal organ, the vomeronasal duct opens ventrally, medial to the inferior septal ridge, and empties directly into the nasal fossa (slice 100.3.1; fig. 34) anterior to the superior margin of the nasopalatine duct (slice 106.3.2). Unlike other animals described here, and like some ‘‘archaeorhinate’’ taxa described by Broom (1897), the nasopalatine and vomeronasal ducts do not directly communicate (see also Menzel, 1979; Hofer, 1982b). However, Solenodon differs from Broom’s ‘‘archaeorhinates’’ in possessing cartilaginous support for the nasopalatine duct. A connection is evident between the inferior arm of the paraseptal cartilage and the cartilage supporting the nasopalatine duct (slice 101.2.1; fig. 25). The latter cartilage is present at the superior margin of the nasopalatine duct, and extends lateral to the duct to the lateral rim of the bony incisive foramina. The nasopalatine ducts run posteroinferiorly to empty into the oral cavity adjacent to the palatine papilla (slice 108.2.2).</p> <p>The relatively tiny medial arm of the paraseptal cartilage has no connection with the anterior transverse lamina, which lies far anterior to the vomeronasal organ and its cartilages. Although the nasal septum and floor are continuous throughout most of the elongate external nose of Solenodon, the connection between the nasal floor and sidewall is never complete, as Solenodon shows an anteroposteriorly running suture between nasal floor and roof adjacent to the nasolacrimal duct.</p> <p>The superior alar processes of Solenodon are relatively small, consisting of an extend­ ed nasal sidewall that ends freely, with no connection to the anterior nasal cupula (e.g., slice 11.1.3).</p> </div>	http://treatment.plazi.org/id/32775073FFC9FF8F8CCEFEA42367FD02	Public Domain	No known copyright restrictions apply. See Agosti, D., Egloff, W., 2009. Taxonomic information exchange and copyright: the Plazi approach. BMC Research Notes 2009, 2:53 for further explanation.		Plazi	ASHER, ROBERT J.	ASHER, ROBERT J. (2001): Cranial Anatomy in Tenrecid Insectivorans: Character Evolution Across Competing Phylogenies. American Museum Novitates 3352: 1-55, DOI: 10.1206/0003-0082(2001)352<0001:CAITIC>2.0.CO;2, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1206/0003-0082%282001%29352%3C0001%3ACAITIC%3E2.0.CO%3B2
32775073FFC9FF808EC0FD5C2152F9A0.text	32775073FFC9FF808EC0FD5C2152F9A0.taxon	http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text	http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#GeneralDescription	text/html	en	Erinaceus europaeus Linnaeus 1758	<div><p>Erinaceus europaeus (ZIUT, SVL 37 mm)</p> <p>Posteriorly, the vomeronasal organ begins at a point slightly posterior to the anterior tip of the first ethmoturbinal (e.g., slice 21.3.2) and ends 1.6 mm anteriorly, over the incisive foramina. The vomeronasal organ comprises about 22% of nasal capsule length (7.3 mm) and 8% of head length (19 mm). No major blood vessels accompany the vomeronasal organ along its length.</p> <p>The paraseptal cartilages are J­shaped (e.g., slice 17.2.3). Anteriorly, the vomeronasal duct is completely enclosed by the out­ er bar (slice 15.1.4), which begins posteriorly from the inferior arm of the paraseptal cartilage, runs dorsally over the vomeronasal duct, and joins the medial arm of the paraseptal cartilage as the duct empties into the nasopalatine canal. Erinaceus displays a paired vomeronasal duct, leaving the vomeronasal organ anteriorly and connecting directly into the nasopalatine duct (slice 14.5.1). The paired nasopalatine duct empties into the mouth on either side of a well­defined palatine papilla (e.g., slice 14.3.3; fig. 26). A small nasopalatine duct cartilage, continuous with the inferior portion of the paraseptal cartilage, is evident medially and anterolaterally to the nasopalatine canal (slice 14.2.4; fig. 26).</p> <p>Anterior to the nasopalatine ducts, both inferior and superior septal ridges are apparent, without cartilaginous support (slice 12.5.2). As in Potamogale, the medial processes of the paraseptal cartilages are continuous anteriorly with the anterior transverse lamina. This lamina is continuous with the nasal sidewall, roof, and septum throughout a large portion of the external nose anterior to the premaxilla (e.g., slice 9.2.3).</p> <p>The superior alar processes show most continuity with the anterior floor of the nasal capsule (slice 9.1.4); anteriorly, they bifurcate around the external nares.</p> <p>LIST OF NASAL CHARACTERS</p> <p>Several morphological differences are evident in specimens of different age. For example, like other cranial sense organs (e.g., eyes), the vomeronasal organ grows with negative allometry relative to body mass and is proportionately larger in younger specimens. Thus, a fetal Micropotamogale specimen (AIG 22733 –3) with a head length of about 9 mm shows a posterior margin of the vomeronasal organ overlapping the anterior extent of the first ethmoturbinial. The vomeronasal organ in an adult Micropotamogale (IZEA 939) with a head length of about 50 mm, on the other hand, ends posteriorly near the upper canines, as described above. Even so, the vomeronasal organ in an embryo of Potamogale is considerably longer than that of similarly aged Micropotamogale, Echinops, Tenrec, and Microgale individuals examined in this study.</p> <p>Adult specimens (e.g., ZIUT Sorex, AIG 1227 and IZEA 939 Micropotamogale) show resorption of certain regions of nasal cartilage not evident in fetal representatives of these taxa. This includes the medial wing of the paraseptal cartilage, the connection between the nasal septum and roof, and the connection between the paraseptal cartilage and anterior transverse lamina. The connection between the paraseptal and nasopalatine duct cartilages appears less ontogenetically variable, as both structures persist intact postnatally, and two relatively older specimens (Setifer and Solenodon) with erupted deciduous teeth show a connection between the two. Finally, as described above, tubercle­like ‘‘spurs’’ on the dorsum of the nasal cupulae are evident in the fetal Potamogale (fig. 23A) and two fetal Micropotamogale specimens. However, these are absent in the two available adult Micropotamogale specimens, and must therefore be presumed to disappear during the course of ontogeny.</p> <p>There is of course nothing wrong with attempting to extract phylogenetic information from characters that are expressed only during a certain point in ontogeny. The problem arises when a given sample contains taxa representing different ontogenetic stages. Such is presently the case; therefore, I attempt to use characters that are consistently expressed in individuals of various ages. The remaining morphological differences described above are constant in those taxa represented in this study by adult and fetal specimens (table 2). This enables comparisons between taxa represented by only postnatal (Geogale) or fetal (Potamogale) specimens.</p> <p>Some of the morphological variation described above (i.e., relations and cartilaginous support for the inferior septal ridge and connections of the superior alar cartilage and nasal cupulae) may provide valuable character information for phylogenetic purposes. However, based on the present sample, it is difficult to unambiguously refine the observed morphology into discrete character states. Hence, these characters are for present purposes not considered in the following pages.</p> <p>Table 4 includes character data for several taxa that are not described above. This information is based on observations of specimens listed in table 2, as well as the work of authors cited below. Specifically, data on nasal structure in Bradypus is taken from Schneider (1955); in Dasypus from Broom (1897) and Reinbach (1952a, 1952b); in Echinosorex from Broom (1915a) and Wöhrmann­Repenning (1984); in Orycteropus from Broom (1909) and W. Maier (personal commun.); in Procavia from Broom (1898), Lindahl (1948), and Weisser (1992); in Talpa from Fischer (1901) and Broom (1915b); and in Tupaia from Broom (1915a), Maier (1980), and Wöhrmann­Repenning (1984). Not all characters relevant to this study are described by these authors; hence, where information on a given character is lacking, I code it as ‘‘missing’’.</p> <p>The following characters are numbered after the nine arterial characters described above, so as to correspond with the matrix</p> <p>TABLE 4</p> <p>Soft­Tissue Character Matrix (Characters correspond in number to those listed in the text and in table 3. Taxa representing endemic African orders are in bold; insectivorans are marked with an asterisk. See text for sources of character information for taxa not represented by histological sections listed in table 2. A indicates a polymorphism between states 0 and 1, B between states 0 and 2, and C between states 0 and 3. 9 indicates an inapplicable character, which is treated by parsimony algorithms as missing data.)</p> <p>presented in table 4 (see also table 3). As detailed previously, a ‘‘0’’ character state assignment does not necessarily imply primitiveness.</p> <p>10. Anterior relation of vomeronasal duct: Solenodon and Dasypus differ from other animals examined here in possessing a vomeronasal duct that empties directly into the nasal fossa (state 1) rather than into the nasopalatine duct (e.g., Tenrec, state 0).</p> <p>11. Paraseptal cartilage and anterior vomeronasal organ (‘‘outer bar’’): Among marsupials, a strut of paraseptal cartilage consistently encloses the vomeronasal organ anterolaterally (e.g., Didelphis, state 0; Sán­ chez­Villagra, 2001). This is variably present among placental mammals; in many taxa the paraseptal cartilage is laterally open along its anterior half (e.g., Micropotamogale, state 1).</p> <p>12. Oral opening of nasopalatine duct: The nasopalatine duct opens into the oral region via a single, unpaired channel in Echinops and Setifer (state 1; Hofer, 1982a). In other taxa, the nasopalatine duct is paired and opens into the mouth on either side of the palatine papilla (e.g., Tenrec, state 0).</p> <p>13. Presence of nasopalatine duct cartilage: Broom (e.g., 1898) noted that marsupials consistently lack cartilaginous support for the nasopalatine duct as it passes ventrally from the nasal fossa into the oral cavity (e.g., Didelphis, state 0). Some placentals, on the other hand, often show a cartilage medial and/or lateral to the nasopalatine duct (e.g., Tenrec, state 1). Many authors assign the medial (nasopalatine) and lateral (palatine) components different names (e.g., Maier, 1980); however, as mentioned above, Kuhn (1971) noted that these cartilages may be continuous and difficult to distinguish from one another. Due to this ambiguity, all cartilaginous support for the nasopalatine duct is here labeled ‘‘nasopalatine duct cartilage’’.</p> <p>14. Connection of nasopalatine duct and paraseptal cartilages: When present, the nasopalatine duct cartilage may show a connection to the paraseptal cartilage posterior to the nasopalatine duct (e.g., Tenrec, state 1). Alternatively, it may appear adjacent to the duct with no connection to the paraseptal cartilage (e.g., Microgale, state 0).</p> <p>15. Presence of nasolacrimal duct: Most taxa show a glandular duct running from the anteromedial margin of the eye, along the sidewall of the cartilaginous nose ventral to the maxilloturbinal, and opening anteriorly within the nasal cupula adjacent to the external nares (e.g., Tenrec, state 0). Potamogalines, on the other hand, show no trace of any such duct (state 1).</p> <p>16. Lateral cover of nasolacrimal duct: The extent to which the nasolacrimal duct is shielded laterally by cartilage varies (W. Maier, personal commun.). In Echinops, there is no cartilaginous barrier lateral to the duct at any point except for its anterior extreme, when it opens into the nasal cupula (state 0). Erinaceus, on the other hand, shows a lateral extension of the anterior transverse lamina dorsal to the anterior margin of the premaxilla that shields the nasolacrimal duct laterally, well before it empties anteriorly into the nasal cupula (state 1).</p> <p>17. Papillary cartilage: Some taxa exhibit a cartilaginous structure within the palatine papilla (e.g., Geogale, state 0). Broom (1896) and Sánchez­Villagra (2001) noted the presence of a papillary cartilage in most marsupials; however, such a structure is lacking in a Didelphis individual examined in this study (table 2) and in those examined by Wöhrmann­Repenning (1984), although it is present in others (Sánchez­Villagra, personal commun.). Most placentals lack a papillary cartilage (e.g., Tenrec, state 1).</p> <p>18. Vomeronasal organ blood vessels: In several taxa, a prominent blood vessel travels anteroposteriorly along with the vomeronasal organ tucked into its lateral side, giving the vomeronasal organ a kidney­shaped appearance when viewed coronally (e.g., Didelphis, state 0). Other animals show blood vessels scattered throughout the vomeronasal epithelium that do not travel in any single, welldefined fossa in the vomeronasal organ (e.g., Potamogale, state 1).</p> <p>19. Shape of nasal septum: Sánchez­Villagra (2001) noted that a parallel­sided nasal septum (when viewed coronally) is ubiquitous among marsupials (e.g., Didelphis, state 0), and contrasts with the ventrally ovoid septum present in many placental mammals (e.g., Echinops, state 1).</p> <p>20. Zona annularis: Anterior to the premaxilla, the nasal cartilages may form a complete, uninterrupted ring of cartilage around the nasal fossa, joining the anterior transverse lamina with the nasal sidewall and roof (e.g., Echinops, state 0). Alternatively, these structures may not be fully continuous at any point anterior to the premaxilla (e.g., Solenodon, state 1).</p> </div>	http://treatment.plazi.org/id/32775073FFC9FF808EC0FD5C2152F9A0	Public Domain	No known copyright restrictions apply. See Agosti, D., Egloff, W., 2009. Taxonomic information exchange and copyright: the Plazi approach. BMC Research Notes 2009, 2:53 for further explanation.		Plazi	ASHER, ROBERT J.	ASHER, ROBERT J. (2001): Cranial Anatomy in Tenrecid Insectivorans: Character Evolution Across Competing Phylogenies. American Museum Novitates 3352: 1-55, DOI: 10.1206/0003-0082(2001)352<0001:CAITIC>2.0.CO;2, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1206/0003-0082%282001%29352%3C0001%3ACAITIC%3E2.0.CO%3B2
