OR OSSEOUS SYSTEM. 



10!) 



as in many edentulous quadrupeds and birds. Although the 

 radius and the ulna are free on the arms, the fibula is very 

 imperfect, and is anchylosed to the tibia on the posterior 

 extremities. Notwithstanding the differences observed in 

 the skeletons of the different kinds of marsupial quadrupeds, 

 they agree in the possession of two triangular, lengthened, 

 marsupial bones articulated moveably to the anterior margin 

 of the pubes, and extending forwards behind the pouch and 

 the mammary glands, and in contact with the recti muscles 

 of the abdomen. 



The skeletons of carnivorous quadrupeds have gene- 

 rally the bones of a more compact and dense texture, 

 combining lightness with strength in their forms, and 

 secure, yet freely moveable in their articulations, which 

 corresponds with their great muscular development, with the 

 extent of their respiratory system, with the increased energy 

 of all their functions, and with their living wants and in- 

 stincts. From their great cerebral and intellectual develop- 

 ment, their cranial cavity is comparatively large, and to give 

 strength to their jaws their face is generally short and broad, 

 as seen in these skulls of the Bengal tiger, felis tigris (Fig. 

 58. A. B.) The transverse occipital ridge (,) is re- 

 markably high and prominent, for the strong muscles of 

 the neck, as also the longitudinal ridge (b, b,) extending 

 forwards along the occipital and parietal bones, which 



FIG. 58. 



