The =hand=. Each of the five digits consists of an elongated metacarpal, terminated at each end by an epiphysis, and of a varying number of phalanges. The terminal phalanx of each digit has an epiphysis only at its proximal end, the others have them at both ends. The first digit, or =pollex=, is the stoutest, and has two phalanges, the second has three, the third four, the fourth three, and the fifth two. The terminal phalanx of each of the first three digits is pointed and sheathed in a horny claw; and is also marked by a pair of prominent lateral grooves. THE PELVIC GIRDLE. The pelvic girdle of the Crocodile consists of four parts, a dorsal element, the =ilium=, an anterior ventral element, the =pubis=, a posterior ventral element, the =ischium=, and an accessory anterior ventral element, the =epipubis=. All except the epipubis take part in the formation of the =acetabulum=, which is perforated by a prominent hole. The =ilium= (fig. 49, 1) is a thick strong bone, firmly united on its inner side with the two sacral ribs. Its dorsal border is rounded, its ventral border bears posteriorly two irregular surfaces, completed by epiphyses, which are united respectively with the ischium and pubis. The =ischium= (fig. 49, 2)--the largest bone of the pelvis, is somewhat contracted in the middle and expanded at either end. Its proximal end, which is formed by an epiphysis, bears two surfaces, one of which is united to the ilium, while the other forms part of the acetabulum. The anterior border is also drawn out dorsally into a strong process, which is terminated by a convex epiphysis, and is united to the pubis. The ventral end of the ischium forms a flattened blade, meeting its fellow in a median symphysis. The =pubis= (fig. 49, 3) is much smaller than either the ilium or ischium; it forms a small patch of unossified cartilage, interposed between the anterior parts of the ilium and ischium. [Illustration FIG. 49. PELVIS AND SACRUM OF AN ALLIGATOR (_Caiman latirostris_) × 1/2. (Brit. Mus.) 1. ilium. 2. ischium. 3. true pubis. 4. epipubis (so-called pubis). 5. acetabular foramen. 6. neural spines of sacral vertebrae. 7. symphysis ischii. 8. process bearing prezygapophysis.] The =epipubis= (fig. 49, 4) is a large bone with a thickened proximal end, which is loosely articulated to the ischium, and a flattened expanded distal end, which is united with its fellow, and with the last pair of abdominal ribs by a large plate of cartilage. This bone is generally described as the pubis. THE POSTERIOR LIMB. This is as usual divisible into three portions, the =thigh=, the =crus= or =shin=, and the =pes=.