What jaws and teeth reveal: Tracing fine-scale ecologicaladaptation in two Cypriot mice
Authors: Dubied, M., Hardouin, E., Mitsainas, G.P., Renaud, S.
Journal: Journal of Anatomy
Publication Date: 30/10/2026
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell
eISSN: 1469-7580
ISSN: 0021-8782
DOI: 10.1111/joa.70246
Abstract:Anatomical structures can capture evolutionary history as well as short-term eco-logical adjustments, but distinguishing these signals remains challenging at fine spatialand temporal scales. In murine rodents, representing one of the most diverse mam-malian radiations, mandibular and dental morphology provide powerful markers ofboth phylogenetic divergence and feeding-related adaptation. This study investigatesthese signatures in two mouse species co-occurring on the island of Cyprus: theintroduced house mouse Mus musculus domesticus and the endemic Mus cypriacus.Although morphologically similar and occasionally syntopic, the two species differin habitat use and dietary strategies, ranging from anthropogenic resources in M. m.domesticus to a more natural and diversified trophic niche in M. cypriacus. Using 3Dgeometric morphometrics, shape variation of mandibles and molars was quantified,allowing to identify interspecific differences, allometric patterns, and age-related tra-jectories of dental wear. The morphometric descriptors were questioned regardingtheir respective ability to trace phylogenetic divergence, ecological specialization, andontogenetic dynamics. The results highlight how subtle morphological descriptors canreveal fine-scale ecological processes and species-specific adaptive pathways.
Source: Manual