Hippopotamus Skull Model Replica
$1,400.00
This large aquatic herbivore can be aggressive when protecting its territory. The Hippopotamus contributes to more human deaths in Africa than lions, crocodiles, and venomous snakes combined.
- Description
- Additional information
Description
Hippopotamus Skull Information:
- High-Set Organs: The nostrils, eyes, and ears are located on the highest plane of the skull. This allows the animal to remain almost entirely submerged while maintaining sensory contact with the surface.
- Brain Case: The braincase is notably small in proportion to the massive facial and jaw structure.
Jaw Mechanics and Bite Force - Gape: The specialized jaw hinge allows for a gape of nearly 180 degrees, used primarily for territorial displays.
- Bite Force: The skull supports muscles capable of producing a force measured at 1,821 psi (8,100 newtons).
- Weight: Male mandibles are significantly heavier than females, typically weighing about 44% more.
Hippopotamus Dentition
- Continuous Growth: The incisors and canines (tusks) grow continuously throughout the hippo’s life.
- Tusk Dimensions: Male lower canines are roughly twice the length of females, often exceeding 50 cm (20 inches).
- Self-Sharpening: The upper and lower tusks grind against one another, creating a razor-sharp edge.
Scientific classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Artiodactyla
- Family: Hippopotamidae
- Genus: Hippopotamus
- Species: H. amphibius
- Binomial name: Hippopotamus amphibius Linnaeus, 1758
- Temporal range: Pleistocene–Recent
- Conservation status: Vulnerable (IUCN 3.1), CITES Appendix II
Pair our hippopotamus skull replica with our pygmy hippopotamus skull replica for osteology study comparisons.
Additional information
| Weight | 45 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 28.8 in |
| World Hippopotamus Day - February 15 | Each year, World Hippo Day on February 15th provides a special day to celebrate the world’s third-largest mammal. It’s also a day to learn more about the hippopotamus. The Blue whale and the African elephant are the only two mammals in the world that are larger than the hippopotamus. The word hippo translates to river horse in ancient Greek. The giant animal weighs a whopping 8,000 pounds. There is only one continent in the world you can find a hippo. That continent is Africa. Hippos are native to over 30 countries in Africa. These herbivores live up to 50 years in the wild. There are only two species of hippos on the planet. These include the common hippopotamus and the pygmy hippo. |