Abstract
Comparisons of 3D shapes have recently been applied to diverse
anatomical structures using landmarking techniques. However discerning
evolutionary patterns can be challenging for structures lacking
homologous landmarks. We used alpha shape analyses to quantify vaginal
shape complexity in 40 marine mammal specimens including cetaceans,
pinnipeds, and sirenians. We explored phylogenetic signal and the
potential roles of natural and sexual selection on vaginal shape
evolution. Complexity scores were consistent with qualitative
observations. Cetaceans had a broad range of alpha complexities, while
pinnipeds were comparatively simple and sirenians were complex.
Intraspecific variation was found. Three-dimensional surface heat maps
revealed that shape complexity was driven by invaginations and
protrusions of the vaginal wall. Phylogenetic signal was weak and
metrics of natural selection (relative neonate size) and sexual
selection (relative testes size, sexual size dimorphism, and penis
morphology) did not explain vaginal complexity patterns. Additional
metrics, such as penile shape complexity, may yield interesting insights
into marine mammal genital coevolution. We advocate for the use of alpha
shapes to discern patterns of evolution that would otherwise not be
possible in 3D anatomical structures lacking homologous landmarks.