Re: scapula question

[DinoBoyGraphics@aol.com]

I assume you are referring to the suprascapular cartilage.  It's present in 
many (if not most) tetrapods.  Interstingly, not only do osteicthians have a 
suprascapular cartilage, but even chondricthians have a seperate suprascapular 
cartilage condensate above the cartilagenous scapula.  Certainly ungulates 
usually have fairly well developed suprascapular cartilage; I haven't examined 
many other mammal groups, but I'm pretty sure it's widespread.  In archosaurs, 
crocodillians have suprascapular cartilage.  In dinosaurs I'm less sure.  I can 
vouch that Brachylophosaurus scapulae show clear attachement points for a 
suprisingly ungulate-looking suprascapular cartilage (in attachement...don't 
know the cartilage morphology, obviously!).  I haven't looked enough at other 
dinosaurs to know.

Hope that helps,

Scott

-- 
Scott Hartman
Zoology & Physiology
University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY 82070

(307) 742-3799