Open Journal of Animal Sciences
Volume 3, Issue 1 (January 2013)
ISSN Print: 2161-7597 ISSN Online: 2161-7627
Google-based Impact Factor: 1.39 Citations h5-index & Ranking
Pneumothorax as a predatory goal for the sabertooth cat (Smilodon fatalis) ()
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ABSTRACT
Smilodon fatalis was a large extinct felid distinguished by their two impressive maxillary canines and surprisingly low canine fracture rates. Previous theories regarding their attack strategy have suggested delivering damage by a bite with their maxillary canines. It has also been previously suggested that the canines could have been used to deliver a non-biting stab with an open jaw. It has been generally hypothesized that the attack was delivered to the neck of their large herbivore prey. Smilodon fatalis could have used their canines in a non-biting stab delivered with a closed jaw for the sole purpose of creating a pneumothorax. Creation of a pneumothorax would maximize immediate attack lethality, and minimize exposure of its canines to fracture.
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