How is the genus *Grus* generally distinguished from other crane genera based on physical structure?
Answer
Differences in skull structure and leg morphology
While many cranes share the general body plan of large, long-legged, long-necked birds, the genus *Grus* is specifically delineated from other crane genera through finer morphological details observable in established scientific literature. These distinctions are often based on subtle but consistent variations found in the skull structure and the morphology of the legs. These physical markers, along with slight variations in mating displays and vocalizations, provide the criteria necessary for placing species like the Whooping Crane (*Grus americana*) and the Common Crane (*Grus grus*) into the same genus grouping.
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