Metacarpophalangeal region

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 (Pollex) or thumb is missing.

In Carnivores, when there is one, it is thin and never participates in the support.

In Pigs and Ruminants, only the fingers III and IV are well developed.

In Pigs, the digits II and V are reduced and accessory, whereas in Ruminants they are reduced to vestiges, the metacarpal elements being absent and only rudimentary phalanges persisting within the dewclaw (Paraungula)

In Horses, only the third finger, that is very powerful, is very developed.

In Carnivores, digits II to V each bear a distal digital pad (torus digitalis); in addition, a single metacarpal pad (torus metacarpeus) is present on the palmar aspect of the metacarpophalangeal region, common to these four digits.