Metacarpophalangeal region
Regio metacarpophalangea
Definition
The metacarpophalangeal region is represented by the fingers of the hand (Digiti manus) that are in variable number according to the species. Fundamentally, there are five fingers, numbered I to V from the medial border to the lateral one.
In all Ungulates, the first finger or thumb (Pollex) is missing.
In Carnivorous, when there is one, it is thin and never participates in the support.
In Porcines and Ruminants, only the fingers III and IV are well developed.
In Pigs, the digits II and V are reduced and accessory, while they are missing in Ruminants in which only persist the ungulate relics of the dewclaw (Paraungulae).
In Equidae, only the third finger, that is very powerful, is very developed.
In Carnivorous, the other fingers than the thumb present a metatarsal pad (Torulus digitalis) at the plantar side of their distal extremity. v
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