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Age Estimation of African Lions Panthera leo by Ratio of Tooth Areas

Author

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  • Paula A White
  • Dennis Ikanda
  • Luigi Ferrante
  • Philippe Chardonnet
  • Pascal Mesochina
  • Roberto Cameriere

Abstract

Improved age estimation of African lions Panthera leo is needed to address a number of pressing conservation issues. Here we present a formula for estimating lion age to within six months of known age based on measuring the extent of pulp closure from X-rays, or Ratio Of tooth AReas (ROAR). Derived from measurements taken from lions aged 3–13 years for which exact ages were known, the formula explains 92% of the total variance. The method of calculating the pulp/tooth area ratio, which has been used extensively in forensic science, is novel in the study of lion aging. As a quantifiable measure, ROAR offers improved lion age estimates for population modeling and investigations of age-related mortality, and may assist national and international wildlife authorities in judging compliance with regulatory measures involving age.

Suggested Citation

  • Paula A White & Dennis Ikanda & Luigi Ferrante & Philippe Chardonnet & Pascal Mesochina & Roberto Cameriere, 2016. "Age Estimation of African Lions Panthera leo by Ratio of Tooth Areas," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 11(4), pages 1-10, April.
  • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0153648
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153648
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