Evolution of craniofacial shape in relation to sexual dimorphism in Theropithecus and Papio

Ossorio, Ángeles, Figueroa-Torrejón, Ambra, Buston, Rodrigo, Caldon, Matteo, Mathe, Jacinto, Doria, Giuliano, Gippoliti, Spartaco, Volta, Antonella, Ferreira da Silva, María Joana, Bobe, René, Carvalho, Susana, Capelli, Cristian and Martínez, Felipe I. 2025. Evolution of craniofacial shape in relation to sexual dimorphism in Theropithecus and Papio. Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution 13 , 1537474. 10.3389/fevo.2025.1537474

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Abstract

Introduction: Sexual dimorphism in cranial morphology is a significant aspect of primate evolution, providing insights into evolutionary pressures and mating systems in different species. This study focuses on cranial sexual dimorphism in Papio and Theropithecus, two closely related genera within the tribe Papionini. Methods: Using geometric morphometric techniques, we analyzed 570 cranial specimens from both genera, with data sourced from various studies and repositories. Thirty craniofacial landmarks were defined and analyzed through Geometric Morphometrics tools to evaluate shape variation. Results: Our findings reveal distinct morphological clusters for each genus and sex, with Papio and Theropithecus exhibiting significant sexual dimorphism. The results distinguish genera and sex-based groups, indicating differential impacts of size on shape across groups. The findings suggest that while sexual dimorphism is stable in magnitude within each genus, the specific morphological manifestations differ. Discussion: This research advances our understanding of the evolutionary mechanisms driving sexual dimorphism and emphasizes the need for further studies to explore the genetic and environmental factors influencing these differences. The innovative approach and comprehensive dataset provide a robust framework for future investigations into primate cranial morphology and its evolutionary implications.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Biosciences
Additional Information:	License information from Publisher: LICENSE 1: URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Publisher:	Frontiers Media
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	17 September 2025
Date of Acceptance:	1 August 2025
Last Modified:	17 Sep 2025 09:30
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/181142

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