Abstract
We examined the variation in skull size and shape of the Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) from six geographically distinct populations. Since there is no sexual dimorphism in this species, both sexes were lumped together for analyses of specimens from these six geographically distinct populations. Populations from Kitakami, Zao, and Hakusan were classified via multivariate analysis, and geographical variation was identified. Skulls in Kitakami, Zao, and Hakusan were significantly larger than those of other populations. This may be due to climatic factors, such as snowfall, as well as differences in interspecies competition among sites. In addition, a characteristic nasal bone was observed in populations in Kitakami and Zao. These characteristics were likely caused by both small population size and isolation from other populations.
