Ecomorphology

Abstract

The goal of ecomorphology is to identify morphological variation that is related to ecology (e.g., dietary preference or locomotor habits), with the aim of inferring ecological traits from morphological traits. This chapter reviews the basic principles of ecomorphology and provides many examples of ecomorphic studies in a range of taxa, with an emphasis on bovids (antelope and relatives). The focus of this chapter is on “applied” ecomorphology, which refers to studies that use ecomorphology as a tool to reconstruct environments. The chapter summarizes some of the strengths and weaknesses of the applied ecomorphic approach, and discusses future directions for studies using this methodology.