VELERICORN ANTLERS ON A MATURE MALE MOOSE (ALCES A. GIGAS)

Abstract

Macro- and microscopic descriptions of perennial, velericorn antlers on a male moose are presented. Unlike the proliferating cartilaginous nodules of “peruke” antlers, the growth of velericorn antlers was relatively controlled with evidence of sequestration (separation) of tines and a degree of regeneration where tines and part of the palm had been lost. In contrast to the centripetal ossification of the pedicels and antlers of normal moose, the slow osteogenic process in velericorn proceeded centrifugally, from the inner core outwards. Proliferation of the integument lead to the formation of epidermal cysts and areas of ectopic ossification. Extra-testicular androgens are believed to cause velericorn antler growth. It is hypothesized that an analogous growth and ossification process characterized proto- and pseudoantlers of the Miocene.