Regional Patterning in Tail Vertebral Form and Function in Chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus)

Synopsis Previous studies have focused on documenting shape variation in the caudal vertebrae chameleons underlying prehensile tail function. The goal of this study was to test impact function using multibody dynamic analysis (MDA). First, observations from dissections and 3D reconstructions generated contrast-enhanced µCT scans were used document regional arrangement muscles along antero-posterior axis. Using MDA, we then tested effect vertebral geometry biomechanical To address question, four different MDA models built: those with a distal either or proximal musculature, reciprocally musculature. For each muscle configuration, calculated force required group for balance an arbitrary external applied model. results showed that distal-type musculature are most efficient, regardless shape. Our also m. ilio-caudalis pars dorsalis is least efficient when combining highlighting importance length transverse process combination lever-moment arm onto which exerted. This initial model inevitably has number simplifications assumptions, however its purpose not predict vivo forces, but instead reveals muscular total can generate, thus providing better understanding significance variations grasping performance chameleons.