The prenatal skull of the Canadian porcupine (Erethizon dorsatus)

This study represents the first critical investigation on the development of the embryonic skull of the porcupine. A complete series of stages makes it possible to trace the developing chondrocranium from its first formation in precartilage to its later transformation into cartilage bone. Concurrent with this growth is the investment of the cartilaginous cranium by membrane bone. The very primitive nature of the chondrocranium offers an excellent opportunity to discuss the existing problems of the embryonic skull from a new angle. Evidence is presented in support of the assumption that the ala temporalis is the homologue of the cynodont epipterygoid. The lamina parietalis develops from a single chondrifying center, thus producing a different arrangement of parietal elements from that found in most mammals. New evidence as to the relationship of the dens epistrophei and basal plate is presented. The position of the internal carotid artery on entering the cranium is different from the condition found in most mammals and throws new light on the interpretation of surrounding structures. The presence of a structure comparable with the crista longitudinalis of Lacerta shows close affinity to the solum nasi of more primitive forms. The great specialization of the face is seen in the early and rapid growth of the membrane bones. The chondrocranium is long persistent and cartilage bone appears late in embryonic life.