ZOOL 224 Mammalian Locomotion

Monotremes walk with limbs in a?

Semi erect posture

Most therians have their limbs in a?

Close to erect posture (para-sagittal)

What is the function of longer legs?

They form longer lever arms for mucles, allowing greater stride length and speed.

What are the 3 types of foot posture

-Plantigrade

-Digitigrade

-Unguligrade

Insertion points closer to the joint allow for increased ____

Speed

Insertion points farther from the joint allow for increased ___

Power/strength

Where is the bulk of muscle in cursorial mammals?

Closer to the body to avoid requiring extra energy to move the weight of the muscle itself. Tends reach distal elements.

Cetaceans and sirenians lack hindlimbs and have a ___

Fluke

Wings in bats are compsoed of thin skin supported by __ long, slender, flexible fingers

4 fingers

Bones fo bat fingers are ++++

Lightly mineralized. This allows them to be slightly pliable.

What is one way bat wings differ from bird wings?

Muscles can be used to change tension and shape in bats, allowing camber to be controlled.

Bats have a ____ lift/drag ratio than birds, but are more ____

Lower lift/drag ratio, more maneuverable