Comparing Cats: A Discussion of Similarities & Differences

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COMPARING BIG CATS , URSIDS  AND 141 OTHER CARNIVORE SPECIES - BITE FORCE

Previous studies have been limited by a lack of inferred bite force data with which to examine evolutionary models such as canine bending strengths (Van Valkenburg and Ruff 1987), proposed differences between the carnivoran families (Radinsky 1981a, b), or the suggestion that extant predators of relatively large prey have evolved higher bite forces (Wroe et al. 2005). In this paper, we provide the first comprehensive database of estimated bite forces for all eight traditionally recognized carnivoran families (Gittleman 1989, Nowak 1991, Binida-Emonds et al. 1999) based on estimated muscle cross-sectional areas and lever mechanics on dry skulls and investigate relationships between bite forces and feeding ecology using a recently developed method for comparison of estimated bite forces among species with different body sizes (Wroe et al. 2005).

Source - BITE FORCES AND EVOLUTIONARY ADAPTATIONS TO FEEDING ECOLOGY IN CARNIVORES (CHRISTIANSEN AND STEPHEN WROE, 2007)
              
  Bite_Forces_and_Evolutionary_Adaptions.pdf (Size: 247.75 KB / Downloads: 6)

   
   
   


It can be seen that a Tiger (Panthera tigris ssp.) weighing 177.8kgs had an absolute bite force of 1472.1 N at canine tips and 2164.7 N at carnacial eocone, and Bite Force Quotients as 130.4 and 129.1 respectively.
Compare this to a 162.2kgs Lion (Panthera tigris ssp.), we have 1314.7 N and 2023.7 N and Bite Force Quotients as 123.8 and 128.1 respectively.

Also, in this study, this 177.8 kgs tiger had second highest absolute bite force both at canine tips and carnacial eocone, exceed only by Polar bear (Ursus maritimus) and highest absolute bite force amongst felines. Reply