Morphology of the Penis in the Taiga Vole (Microtus xanthognathus)

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Abstract
We describe the penis morphology of the taiga vole, and provide as well supplementary data on the phallus of Microtus californicus and M. miurus. The taiga vole phallus can be characterized as relatively “ornate.” Phallic traits place M. xanthognathus marginally more closely related to miurus than to californicus. Moreover, it is not a close relative of M. chrotorrhinus. A search for functional implications of interspecific variations in phallic morphology suggests mainly that the pursuit is worth continuing. A possible correlation of morphology with the kind of mating system remains plausible. It is suggested that several behavioral traits associated with mating might be correlated with the stability of the social system during the breeding season.

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