Occipital bun

Occipital bun is a prominent bulge or projection of the occipital bone at the back of the skull. It is important in scientific descriptions of classic Neanderthal crania. While common among many of humankind's ancestors, primarily robust relatives rather than gracile, the protrusion is relatively rare in modern humans.

Etymology

The term "bun" was coined from its resemblance to the shape of a bun and "occipital" refers to the specific bone in the skull where this feature is present.

Description

The occipital bun is a cranial feature, a prominent bulge or projection of the occipital bone at the back of the skull. It is often related to the sagittal keel and coronal torus. The size and shape of the bun varies among individuals and between sexes, with males typically having larger and more pronounced buns than females.

Occurrence

The occipital bun was common among prehistoric human populations, particularly the Neanderthals. It is also occasionally found in modern humans, although its presence in this population is relatively rare. The bun is not limited to humans and has been observed in the skulls of other primates, including some species of great apes.

Function

The exact function of the occipital bun is not known, but it is often considered to be an adaptation for the attachment of the nuchal muscles that extend down the back of the neck. These muscles are used in head and neck movements, and a larger bun may allow for stronger or more efficient muscle attachment.

Related terms

• Occipital bone
• Neanderthal
• Sagittal keel
• Coronal torus
• Nuchal muscles

See also

• Cranial features
• Human evolution
• Physical anthropology

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  Occipital bun in a Neanderthal skull

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  Occipital bun in a modern human skull

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  Occipital bun in a modern human male