Matching symmetry of the bovine obturator foramen

Abstract

Morphometric studies sometimes consider matching symmetry, in which two separate structures exist as mirror images of each other, one on each body side. The examination of the bovine bones variation in symmetry seems to be neglected in the literature. Moreover the study of obturator foramen appears difficult as it is not suitable the use of Procrustes analysis. A biometrical and a Fourier study were performed on 19 bovine hemicoxae. From the study based on Fourier analysis, no significant shape differences between sides appeared so it was concluded that it was a case of matched symmetry.