GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE BARREN GROUND CARIBOU: I. HEART GIRTH, HIND FOOT LENGTH, AND BODY WEIGHT RELATIONSHIPS

Abstract

The changes in body weight and body proportions associated with growth in well-nourished captive barren ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus) are described. Corresponding changes in free ranging wild caribou from the same population are compared with those obtained from the captive specimens. Body weight:hind foot length and body weight:heart girth ratios relative to age are examined as possible parameters for expressing the extent of developmental restriction imposed on the wild caribou by their nutritional environment.