Physiological implications of the bone histology of Syntarsus rhodesiensis (Saurischia: Theropoda)

Abstract

Femora of Syntarsus rhodesiensis specimens of differing ontogenetic stages were sectioned and prepared for histological study. Features such as the structure of the cortical bone tissue, the degree of vascularisation and haversian substitution, and the general pattern of bone deposition through ontogeny, are described. The question of the bearing of bone histology on interpretation of the probable physiology of Syntarsus is also discussed.