Muscle evolution and locomotion

What are the key factors influencing muscle evolution?

escape from predators, hunting and foraging, habitat adaptation and efficiency in movement

What is an example of escape from predators?

antelope needs to get away from a cheetah so it is not eaten

What is an example of hunting and foraging?

cheetah needs to be speedy so it can catch its prey

What is an example of habitat adaptation/efficiency in movement?

elephants have a muscular trunk for drinking, cooling off, grasping objects, and gathering food

What is the structure of fish muscles?

segmented myomeres that help with swimming

Transitions to limbs led to ____________

specialized muscle groups

What are some examples of specialized muscle groups in birds?

large pectoral muscles for powerful wing beats and the supracoracoideus for lift

What are some examples of specialized muscle groups in humans?

large gluteal muscles for balance, Achilles tendon for elastic energy storage, bipedalism (upright posture supports sustained running)