What is sagittal crest?

A sagittal crest is a bony ridge that runs along the top of the skull in some animals. It is most commonly found in species that have strong jaw muscles, such as carnivores and herbivores that consume tough plant material. The sagittal crest provides a larger attachment surface for the muscles that close the jaw, allowing for more powerful chewing and biting.

In many primates, including humans, the sagittal crest is either reduced or absent, as these species do not have as strong jaw muscles compared to other animals. However, in some human populations, a slight sagittal crest may be present due to genetic variation or adaptation to a specific diet.

Overall, the presence or size of the sagittal crest can provide insight into the animal's diet and feeding habits, as well as its evolutionary history and adaptations for survival.