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Plocek MR, Dunham NT. Spatiotemporal walking gait kinematics of semi-arboreal red pandas (Ailurus fulgens). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 339:755-766. [PMID: 37395486 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Semi-arboreal mammals must routinely cope with the differing biomechanical challenges of terrestrial versus arboreal locomotion; however, it is not clear to what extent semi-arboreal mammals adjust footfall patterns when moving on different substrates. We opportunistically filmed quadrupedal locomotion (n = 132 walking strides) of semi-arboreal red pandas (Ailurus fulgens; n = 3) housed at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and examined the effects of substrate type on spatiotemporal gait kinematic variables using linear mixed models. We further investigated the effects of substrate diameter and orientation on arboreal gait kinematics. Red pandas exclusively used lateral sequence (LS) gaits and most frequently utilized LS lateral couplet gaits across terrestrial and arboreal substrates. Red pandas moved significantly slower (p < 0.001), and controlling for speed, had significantly greater relative stride length (p < 0.001), mean stride duration (p = 0.002), mean duty factor (p < 0.001), and mean number of supporting limbs (p < 0.001) during arboreal locomotion. Arboreal strides on inclined substrates were characterized by significantly faster relative speeds and increased limb phase values compared with those horizontal and declined substrates. These kinematics adjustments help to reduce substrate oscillations thereby promoting stability on potentially precarious arboreal substrates. Red panda limb phase values are similar to those of (primarily terrestrial) Carnivora examined to date. Despite the similarity in footfall patterns during arboreal and terrestrial locomotion, flexibility in other kinematic variables is important for semi-arboreal red pandas that must navigate disparate biomechanical challenges inherent to arboreal versus terrestrial locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura R Plocek
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Division of Conservation and Science, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Noah T Dunham
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Division of Conservation and Science, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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2
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Goto R, Kinoshita Y, Shitara T, Hirasaki E. Diagonal-couplet gaits on discontinuous supports in Japanese macaques and implications for the adaptive significance of the diagonal-sequence, diagonal-couplet gait of primates. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37209057 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Diagonal-sequence, diagonal-couplet (DSDC) gaits have been proposed as an adaptation to travel on discontinuously arranged arboreal branches. Only a few studies have examined primate gait adjustment to support discontinuity. We analyzed the gaits of Japanese macaques walking on the "ground" and two discontinuous conditions, "circle" and "point," to better understand the advantages of DSDC gaits on discontinuous supports. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-eight vertical posts, each with a circular upper surface, were arranged in four rows at a spacing of 200 mm. The diameter of the circular upper surface was 150 mm ("circle condition") or 50 mm ("point condition"). We calculated the limb phase, duty factor, and time interval from hindlimb touchdown to ipsilateral forelimb liftoff. The supports the fore- and hindlimbs landed on during walking were identified in the circle and point condition. RESULTS The macaques predominantly used DSDC gaits in the ground and circle conditions and lateral-sequence, diagonal-couplet (LSDC) gaits in the point condition. The macaques usually placed their hindlimbs on the same supports as their ipsilateral forelimbs during the gait cycle. DISCUSSION Japanese macaques overlapped the ipsilateral fore- and hindlimb stance phase in all DSDC and some LSDC gaits to proximate the ipsilateral limbs on the discontinuous support, allowing the forelimb to guide the hindlimb placement to the support. The overlap duration of the ipsilateral limb stance phases may be extended by DSDC gaits longer than by LSDC gaits, allowing for a direct pass of the support being held by the prehensile hand to the prehensile foot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Goto
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Gunma Paz University, Takasaki, Japan
| | - Yuki Kinoshita
- Center for the Evolutionary Origins of Human Behavior, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Shitara
- Graduate School of Human Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Eishi Hirasaki
- Center for the Evolutionary Origins of Human Behavior, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Japan
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3
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Positional Behavior of Introduced Monk Parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) in an Urban Landscape. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12182372. [PMID: 36139232 PMCID: PMC9494974 DOI: 10.3390/ani12182372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Positional behaviors comprise the entirety of animals’ locomotion and posture. Often, these positional behaviors are paired with information about sußbstrate characteristics (e.g., orientation, diameter, texture, height) and frequency to gain an ecological perspective of when and why an animal utilizes a particular behavior. Thus far, quantitative studies of positional behavior have been limited to mammals, leaving a major gap in our understanding of how animals utilize their environment. In this study, we present the first quantitative report of positional behavior within Aves, presenting scan sampling data from an established colony of Monk Parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) from Brooklyn, New York City. Parrots exhibited a strong preference for small and terminal branches when perching arboreally. Such a pattern is consistent with arboreal primates. We also observed an increase in locomotor diversity on artificial versus naturally occurring substrates. This demonstrates the potential importance of a flexible behavioral repertoire in facilitating a successful transition towards an urban landscape in introduced species and underscores the need for further studies exploring positional behaviors among urban wildlife. Abstract Positional behaviors have been broadly quantified across the Order Primates, and in several other mammalian lineages, to contextualize adaptations to, and evolution within, an arboreal environment. Outside of Mammalia, however, such data are yet to be reported. In this study, we present the first quantitative report of positional behavior within Aves, presenting 11,246 observations of scan sampling data from a colony of Monk Parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) from Brooklyn, New York City. Each scan recorded locomotor and postural behavior and information about weather condition, temperature, and substrate properties (e.g., type, size, orientation). A distinction was also recorded between natural and artificial substrates. Parrots exhibited a strong preference for small and terminal branches, a selection which may reflect targeted foraging of new fruit growth and leaf-buds. We further observed that the gait transition from walking to sidling appears primarily driven by substrate size, with the former preferred on the ground and on large, broad substrates and the latter used to navigate smaller branches. Finally, we observed an increase in locomotor diversity on artificial versus naturally occurring substrates. This demonstrates the importance of a flexible behavioral repertoire in facilitating a successful transition towards an urban landscape in introduced species.
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Laird MF, Punjani Z, Oshay RR, Wright BW, Fogaça MD, Casteren A, Izar P, Visalberghi E, Fragazy D, Strait DS, Ross CF, Wright KA. Feeding postural behaviors and food geometric and material properties in bearded capuchin monkeys (
Sapajus libidinosus
). AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2022. [PMCID: PMC9305483 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Foods that are geometrically and mechanically challenging to eat have been associated with specializations in feeding behavior and craniodental morphology across primates, and many of these foods are embedded, requiring a variety of positional behaviors during feeding. However, variation in positional behaviors in response to food properties is not well understood. Here, we examine differences in feeding postural behaviors across feeding events in relation to substrate and food geometric and material properties in a species of extractive foragers, bearded capuchins (Sapajus libidinosus). Methods and materials We coded over 1400 co‐occurring postural and feeding behaviors, their durations, and relative sizes of substrate and food from videos recorded at Fazenda Boa Vista in Gilbués, Piauí, Brazil. Food material properties were measured from foods collected at the time of the video recordings. Results Our results suggest that bearded capuchin feeding postures significantly differ across the feeding sequence, with substrate size, and between foods of high and low toughness and elastic modulus. Feeding postures were less variable for highly mechanically challenging foods. Food size also had a significant effect on postural behaviors. Large foods were more likely to be associated with suspended postures and small foods with sitting and squatting. Feeding postural behaviors were best explained by a combination of substrate and food variables. Conclusions Our results indicate that food geometric and mechanical properties have a significant influence on feeding postural behaviors in bearded capuchins. We posit that feeding postural behaviors reflect a combination of substrate variables and food properties, and large, mechanically challenging foods have a limiting effect on postural variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myra F. Laird
- Department of Integrative Anatomical Sciences University of Southern California Los Angeles California USA
| | - Zeenia Punjani
- Department of Integrative Anatomical Sciences University of Southern California Los Angeles California USA
| | - Rachel R. Oshay
- Department of Integrative Anatomical Sciences University of Southern California Los Angeles California USA
| | - Barth W. Wright
- Department of Surgery University of Kansas Medical Center Kansas City Kansas USA
| | - Mariana Dutra Fogaça
- Department of Biomedical Sciences Institute of Population Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna Austria
- Neotropical Primates Research Group – NeoPReGo São Paulo Brazil
| | - Adam Casteren
- Department of Human Evolution Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology Leipzig Germany
| | - Patrícia Izar
- Department of Experimental Psychology University of São Paulo São Paulo Brazil
| | - Elisabetta Visalberghi
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, National Research Council (CNR) Rome Italy
| | - Dorothy Fragazy
- Department of Psychology University of Georgia Athens Georgia USA
| | - David S. Strait
- Department of Anthropology Washington University in St. Louis St. Louis Missouri USA
- Palaeo‐Research Institute, University of Johannesburg, Cnr Kingsway and University Road Auckland Park Auckland Park South Africa
| | - Callum F. Ross
- Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy University of Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Kristin A. Wright
- Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine Kansas City Missouri USA
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Wimberly AN, Slater GJ, Granatosky MC. Evolutionary history of quadrupedal walking gaits shows mammalian release from locomotor constraint. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20210937. [PMID: 34403640 PMCID: PMC8370795 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2021.0937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Vertebrates employ an impressive range of strategies for coordinating their limb movements while walking. Although this gait variation has been quantified and hypotheses for its origins tested in select tetrapod lineages, a comprehensive understanding of gait evolution in a macroevolutionary context is currently lacking. We used freely available internet videos to nearly double the number of species with quantitative gait data, and used phylogenetic comparative methods to test key hypotheses about symmetrical gait origin and evolution. We find strong support for an ancestral lateral-sequence diagonal-couplet gait in quadrupedal gnathostomes, and this mode is remarkably conserved throughout tetrapod phylogeny. Evolutionary rate analyses show that mammals overcame this ancestral constraint, resulting in a greater range of phase values than any other tetrapod lineage. Diagonal-sequence diagonal-couplet gaits are significantly associated with arboreality in mammals, though this relationship is not recovered for other tetrapod lineages. Notably, the lateral-sequence lateral-couplet gait, unique to mammals among extant tetrapods, is not associated with any traditional explanations. The complex drivers of gait diversification in mammals remain unclear, but our analyses suggest that their success was due, in part, to release from a locomotor constraint that has probably persisted in other extant tetrapod lineages for over 375 Myr.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa N. Wimberly
- Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Graham J. Slater
- Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of the Geophysical Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Michael C. Granatosky
- Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
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6
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Rolian C. Ecomorphological specialization leads to loss of evolvability in primate limbs. Evolution 2020; 74:702-715. [PMID: 31849049 DOI: 10.1111/evo.13900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Primate limb morphology is often described as either generalized, that is, suited to a range of locomotor and positional behaviors, or specialized for unique locomotor behaviors such as brachiation or bipedalism. The evolution of highly specialized limb morphology may result in loss of evolvability, that is, in a decreased capacity of the locomotor skeleton to evolve in response to selection towards alternative ecomorphological niches. Using evolutionary simulations, I show that the highly specialized limb anatomy of hominoids is associated with a significant loss of evolvability, defined as the number of generations to reach alternative adaptive peaks, and in parallel an increased risk of extinction, particularly in simulated evolution toward generalized quadrupedal limb proportions. Loss of evolvability in apes and humans correlates with three factors: (1) decreased correlation among limb bone lengths (i.e., integration), which slows the rate of change along lines of least evolutionary resistance; (2) limb specialization, which places apes and humans in relatively remote areas of morphospace; and (3) increased skeletal size as a proxy for body size. Thus, locomotor over-specialization can lead to evolutionary dead-ends that significantly increase the probability of hominoid populations going extinct before evolving new adaptive morphologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Campbell Rolian
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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Dunham NT, McNamara A, Shapiro LJ, Hieronymus TL, Phelps T, Young JW. Effects of substrate and phylogeny on quadrupedal gait in free‐ranging platyrrhines. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2019; 170:565-578. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Noah T. Dunham
- Division of Conservation and Science Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Cleveland Ohio
| | - Allison McNamara
- Department of Anthropology University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas
| | - Liza J. Shapiro
- Department of Anthropology University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas
| | - Tobin L. Hieronymus
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
| | - Taylor Phelps
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
| | - Jesse W. Young
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
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8
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McNamara A, Dunham NT, Shapiro LJ, Young JW. The effects of natural substrate discontinuities on the quadrupedal gait kinematics of free‐ranging
Saimiri sciureus. Am J Primatol 2019; 81:e23055. [DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Allison McNamara
- Department of Anthropology University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas
| | - Noah T. Dunham
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
| | - Liza J. Shapiro
- Department of Anthropology University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas
| | - Jesse W. Young
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
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9
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Nyakatura JA. Early primate evolution: insights into the functional significance of grasping from motion analyses of extant mammals. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blz057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John A Nyakatura
- AG Morphologie und Formengeschichte, Institut für Biologie, Humboldt Universität, Philippstraße, Berlin, Germany
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10
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Miller CE, Johnson LE, Pinkard H, Lemelin P, Schmitt D. Limb phase flexibility in walking: a test case in the squirrel monkey ( Saimiri sciureus). Front Zool 2019; 16:5. [PMID: 30820237 PMCID: PMC6380004 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-019-0299-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous analyses of factors influencing footfall timings and gait selection in quadrupeds have focused on the implications for energetic cost or gait mechanics separately. Here we present a model for symmetrical walking gaits in quadrupedal mammals that combines both factors, and aims to predict the substrate contexts in which animals will select certain ranges of footfall timings that (1) minimize energetic cost, (2) minimize rolling and pitching moments, or (3) balance the two. We hypothesize that energy recovery will be a priority on all surfaces, and will be the dominant factor determining footfall timings on flat, ground-like surfaces. The ability to resist pitch and roll, however, will play a larger role in determining footfall choice on narrower and more complex branch-like substrates. As a preliminary test of the expectations of the model, we collected sample data on footfall timings in a primate with relatively high flexibility in footfall timings - the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) - walking on a flat surface, straight pole, and a pole with laterally-projecting branches to simulate simplified ground and branch substrates. We compare limb phase values on these supports to the expectations of the model. RESULTS As predicted, walking steps on the flat surface tended towards limb phase values that promote energy exchange. Both pole substrates induced limb phase values predicted to favor reduced pitching and rolling moments. CONCLUSIONS These data provide novel insight into the ways in which animals may choose to adjust their behavior in response to movement on flat versus complex substrates and the competing selective factors that influence footfall timing in mammals. These data further suggest a pathway for future investigations using this perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Henry Pinkard
- Center for Computational Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California USA
| | - Pierre Lemelin
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta Canada
| | - Daniel Schmitt
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina USA
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11
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Dunham NT, McNamara A, Shapiro L, Phelps T, Wolfe AN, Young JW. Locomotor kinematics of tree squirrels (
Sciurus carolinensis
) in free‐ranging and laboratory environments: Implications for primate locomotion and evolution. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2018; 331:103-119. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.2242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Noah T. Dunham
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
| | - Allison McNamara
- Department of Anthropology University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas
| | - Liza Shapiro
- Department of Anthropology University of Texas at Austin Austin Texas
| | - Taylor Phelps
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
| | - Adrienne N. Wolfe
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
| | - Jesse W. Young
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology Northeast Ohio Medical University Rootstown Ohio
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12
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Neufuss J, Robbins MM, Baeumer J, Humle T, Kivell TL. Gait characteristics of vertical climbing in mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. J Zool (1987) 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Neufuss
- Animal Postcranial Evolution (APE) Laboratory; School of Anthropology and Conservation; Skeletal Biology Research Centre; University of Kent; Canterbury UK
| | - M. M. Robbins
- Department of Primatology; Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology; Leipzig Germany
| | - J. Baeumer
- Department of Primatology; Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology; Leipzig Germany
| | - T. Humle
- School of Anthropology and Conservation; Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology; University of Kent; Canterbury UK
| | - T. L. Kivell
- Animal Postcranial Evolution (APE) Laboratory; School of Anthropology and Conservation; Skeletal Biology Research Centre; University of Kent; Canterbury UK
- Department of Human Evolution; Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology; Leipzig Germany
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Herbin M, Hommet E, Hanotin-Dossot V, Perret M, Hackert R. Treadmill locomotion of the mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus); kinematic parameters during symmetrical and asymmetrical gaits. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2018; 204:537-547. [PMID: 29610933 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-018-1256-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The gaits of the adult grey mouse lemur Microcebus murinus were studied during treadmill locomotion over a large range of velocities. The locomotion sequences were analysed to determine the gait and the various spatiotemporal gait parameters of the limbs. We found that velocity adjustments are accounted for differently by stride frequency and stride length depending on whether the animal showed a symmetrical or an asymmetrical gait. When using symmetrical gaits the increase in velocity is associated with a constant contribution of the stride length and stride frequency; the increase of the stride frequency being always lower. When using asymmetrical gaits, the increase in velocity is mainly assured by an increase in the stride length which tends to decrease with increasing velocity. A reduction in both stance time and swing time contributed to the increase in stride frequency for both gaits, though with a major contribution from the decrease in stance time. The pattern of locomotion obtained in a normal young adult mouse lemurs can be used as a template for studying locomotor control deficits during aging or in different environments such as arboreal ones which likely modify the kinematics of locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Herbin
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France.
| | - Eva Hommet
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France
| | - Vicky Hanotin-Dossot
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France
| | - Martine Perret
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France
| | - Rémi Hackert
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France
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Sellers WI, Hirasaki E. Quadrupedal locomotor simulation: producing more realistic gaits using dual-objective optimization. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2018; 5:171836. [PMID: 29657790 PMCID: PMC5882714 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.171836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In evolutionary biomechanics it is often considered that gaits should evolve to minimize the energetic cost of travelling a given distance. In gait simulation this goal often leads to convincing gait generation. However, as the musculoskeletal models used get increasingly sophisticated, it becomes apparent that such a single goal can lead to extremely unrealistic gait patterns. In this paper, we explore the effects of requiring adequate lateral stability and show how this increases both energetic cost and the realism of the generated walking gait in a high biofidelity chimpanzee musculoskeletal model. We also explore the effects of changing the footfall sequences in the simulation so it mimics both the diagonal sequence walking gaits that primates typically use and also the lateral sequence walking gaits that are much more widespread among mammals. It is apparent that adding a lateral stability criterion has an important effect on the footfall phase relationship, suggesting that lateral stability may be one of the key drivers behind the observed footfall sequences in quadrupedal gaits. The observation that single optimization goals are no longer adequate for generating gait in current models has important implications for the use of biomimetic virtual robots to predict the locomotor patterns in fossil animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Irvin Sellers
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Eishi Hirasaki
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Japan
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15
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Young JW, Shapiro LJ. Developments in development: What have we learned from primate locomotor ontogeny? AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2018; 165 Suppl 65:37-71. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jesse W. Young
- Department of Anatomy and NeurobiologyNortheast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED)Rootstown Ohio, 44272
| | - Liza J. Shapiro
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of TexasAustin Texas, 78712
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16
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Finestone EM, Brown MH, Ross SR, Pontzer H. Great ape walking kinematics: Implications for hominoid evolution. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2018; 166:43-55. [PMID: 29313896 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Great apes provide a point of reference for understanding the evolution of locomotion in hominoids and early hominins. We assessed (1) the extent to which great apes use diagonal sequence, diagonal couplet gaits, like other primates, (2) the extent to which gait and posture vary across great apes, and (3) the role of body mass and limb proportions on ape quadrupedal kinematics. METHODS High-speed digital video of zoo-housed bonobos (Pan paniscus, N = 8), chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes, N = 13), lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla, N = 13), and orangutans (Pongo spp. N = 6) walking over-ground at self-selected speeds were used to determine the timing of limb touch-down, take-off, and to measure joint and segment angles at touch-down, midstance, and take-off. RESULTS The great apes in our study showed broad kinematic and spatiotemporal similarity in quadrupedal walking. Size-adjusted walking speed was the strongest predictor of gait variables. Body mass had a negligible effect on variation in joint and segment angles, but stride frequency did trend higher among larger apes in analyses including size-adjusted speed. In contrast to most other primates, great apes did not favor diagonal sequence footfall patterns, but exhibited variable gait patterns that frequently shifted between diagonal and lateral sequences. CONCLUSION Similarities in the terrestrial walking kinematics of extant great apes likely reflect their similar post-cranial anatomy and proportions. Our results suggest that the walking kinematics of orthograde, suspensory Miocene ape species were likely similar to living great apes, and highlight the utility of videographic and behavioral data in interpreting primate skeletal morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Finestone
- Department of Anthropology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, New York 10016.,New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology (NYCEP), New York, New York
| | - Mary H Brown
- Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, Ilinois 60614
| | - Stephen R Ross
- Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, Ilinois 60614
| | - Herman Pontzer
- Department of Anthropology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, New York 10016.,New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology (NYCEP), New York, New York.,Department of Anthropology, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York, 10065
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17
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Karantanis N, Rychlik L, Herrel A, Youlatos D. Arboreality in acacia rats (
Thallomys paedulcus
; Rodentia, Muridae): gaits and gait metrics. J Zool (1987) 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N.‐E. Karantanis
- Department of Zoology School of Biology Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Thessaloniki Greece
| | - L. Rychlik
- Department of Systematic Zoology Institute of Environmental Biology Faculty of Biology Adam Mickiewicz University Poznań Poland
| | - A. Herrel
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique/Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle Paris France
| | - D. Youlatos
- Department of Zoology School of Biology Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Thessaloniki Greece
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18
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Karantanis NE, Rychlik L, Herrel A, Youlatos D. Arboreal Locomotion in Eurasian Harvest Mice Micromys Minutus (Rodentia: Muridae): The Gaits of Small Mammals. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2017; 327:38-52. [PMID: 28332310 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Body size imposes significant constraints on arboreal locomotion. Despite the wealth of research in larger arboreal mammals, there is a lack of data on arboreal gaits of small mammals. In this context, the present study explores arboreal locomotion in one of the smallest rodents, the Eurasian harvest mice Micromys minutus (∼10 g). We examined gait metrics (i.e., diagonality, duty factor [DF], DF index, velocity, stride length, and stride frequency) of six adult male mice on simulated arboreal substrates of different sizes (2, 5, 10, and 25 mm) and inclinations (00 and 450 ). Micromys minutus employed slow, lateral sequence symmetrical gaits on the smaller substrates, which shifted to progressively faster symmetrical gaits of higher diagonality on larger substrates. Both ascents and descents were associated with a higher diagonality, and ascents with a higher DF index compared to horizontal locomotion, underscoring the role of the grasping hind feet. Velocity increase was brought about primarily by an increase in stride frequency, a pattern often encountered in other small mammals, with a secondary and significant contribution of stride length. These findings indicate that, except for velocity and the way it is regulated, there are no significant differences in gait metrics between larger and smaller arboreal mammals. Moreover, the locomotor adaptations of Eurasian harvest mice represent behavioral mechanisms that promote stable, safe, and continuous navigation along slender substrates and ultimately contribute to the successful exploitation of the arboreal milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leszek Rychlik
- Department of Systematic Zoology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - Anthony Herrel
- Département d'Ecologie et de Gestion de la Biodiversité, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique/Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris Cedex 5, France
| | - Dionisios Youlatos
- Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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19
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Karantanis NE, Rychlik L, Herrel A, Youlatos D. Arboreal gaits in three sympatric rodents Apodemus agrarius, Apodemus flavicollis (Rodentia, Muridae) and Myodes glareolus (Rodentia, Cricetidae). Mamm Biol 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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20
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Karantanis NE, Youlatos D, Rychlik L. Diagonal gaits in the feathertail glider Acrobates pygmaeus (Acrobatidae, Diprotodontia): Insights for the evolution of primate quadrupedalism. J Hum Evol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2015.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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21
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Chadwell BA, Young JW. Angular momentum and arboreal stability in common marmosets (Callithrixjacchus). AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2014; 156:565-76. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.22683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2014] [Revised: 11/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brad A. Chadwell
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology; Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED); Rootstown OH 44272
- Skeletal Biology Research Focus Area, NEOMED; Rootstown OH 44272
| | - Jesse W. Young
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology; Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED); Rootstown OH 44272
- Skeletal Biology Research Focus Area, NEOMED; Rootstown OH 44272
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University; Kent OH 44240
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22
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Hesse B, Nyakatura JA, Fischer MS, Schmidt M. Adjustments of Limb Mechanics in Cotton-top Tamarins to Moderate and Steep Support Orientations: Significance for the Understanding of Early Primate Evolution. J MAMM EVOL 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10914-014-9283-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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23
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Thibaudier Y, Frigon A. Spatiotemporal control of interlimb coordination during transverse split-belt locomotion with 1:1 or 2:1 coupling patterns in intact adult cats. J Neurophysiol 2014; 112:2006-18. [PMID: 25057143 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00236.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Interlimb coordination must be flexible to adjust to an ever-changing environment. Here adjustments in interlimb coordination were quantified during tied-belt (equal speed of the fore- and hindlimbs) and transverse split-belt (unequal speed of the fore- and hindlimbs) locomotion in five intact adult cats. Cats performed tied-belt locomotion at 0.4 m/s and 0.8 m/s. For transverse split-belt locomotion, the forelimbs stepped at 0.4 m/s and 0.8 m/s while the hindlimbs stepped at 0.8 m/s (4F8H condition) and 0.4 m/s (8F4H condition), respectively. In the 8F4H condition, the forelimbs could take two steps within one hindlimb cycle, or a 2:1 forelimb-hindlimb relationship. The sequence of limbs contacting the ground and the duration of support periods were differentially modified if the forelimbs stepped faster or slower than the hindlimbs. During transverse split-belt locomotion, the hindlimbs performed longer strides when the forelimbs took shorter strides. In the 8F4H condition with a 2:1 forelimb-hindlimb relationship, phase and gap intervals for the first and second steps were found around certain values and were not randomly distributed, indicating that a new coupling pattern was established. However, temporal and spatial coordination indexes revealed that bilateral coordination between hindlimbs was less accurate and more variable with a 2:1 coupling pattern. Importantly, the animals did not stumble, indicating that spatial and temporal adjustments in interlimb coordination allowed the animals to maintain dynamic stability. The results provide a better understanding of the spatiotemporal adjustments that take place among the four limbs during locomotion when interlimb coordination is challenged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Thibaudier
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alain Frigon
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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24
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Shapiro LJ, Cole WG, Young JW, Raichlen DA, Robinson SR, Adolph KE. Human quadrupeds, primate quadrupedalism, and Uner Tan Syndrome. PLoS One 2014; 9:e101758. [PMID: 25029457 PMCID: PMC4100729 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0101758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2005, an extensive literature documents individuals from several families afflicted with "Uner Tan Syndrome (UTS)," a condition that in its most extreme form is characterized by cerebellar hypoplasia, loss of balance and coordination, impaired cognitive abilities, and habitual quadrupedal gait on hands and feet. Some researchers have interpreted habitual use of quadrupedalism by these individuals from an evolutionary perspective, suggesting that it represents an atavistic expression of our quadrupedal primate ancestry or "devolution." In support of this idea, individuals with "UTS" are said to use diagonal sequence quadrupedalism, a type of quadrupedal gait that distinguishes primates from most other mammals. Although the use of primate-like quadrupedal gait in humans would not be sufficient to support the conclusion of evolutionary "reversal," no quantitative gait analyses were presented to support this claim. Using standard gait analysis of 518 quadrupedal strides from video sequences of individuals with "UTS", we found that these humans almost exclusively used lateral sequence-not diagonal sequence-quadrupedal gaits. The quadrupedal gait of these individuals has therefore been erroneously described as primate-like, further weakening the "devolution" hypothesis. In fact, the quadrupedalism exhibited by individuals with UTS resembles that of healthy adult humans asked to walk quadrupedally in an experimental setting. We conclude that quadrupedalism in healthy adults or those with a physical disability can be explained using biomechanical principles rather than evolutionary assumptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza J. Shapiro
- Department of Anthropology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
| | - Whitney G. Cole
- Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jesse W. Young
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, United States of America
| | - David A. Raichlen
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Scott R. Robinson
- Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Karen E. Adolph
- Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
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25
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D'Angelo G, Thibaudier Y, Telonio A, Hurteau MF, Kuczynski V, Dambreville C, Frigon A. Modulation of phase durations, phase variations, and temporal coordination of the four limbs during quadrupedal split-belt locomotion in intact adult cats. J Neurophysiol 2014; 112:1825-37. [PMID: 25031257 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00160.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stepping along curvilinear paths produces speed differences between the inner and outer limb(s). This can be reproduced experimentally by independently controlling left and right speeds with split-belt locomotion. Here we provide additional details on the pattern of the four limbs during quadrupedal split-belt locomotion in intact cats. Six cats performed tied-belt locomotion (same speed bilaterally) and split-belt locomotion where one side (constant side) stepped at constant treadmill speed while the other side (varying side) stepped at several speeds. Cycle, stance, and swing durations changed in parallel in homolateral limbs with shorter and longer stance and swing durations on the fast side, respectively, compared with the slow side. Phase variations were quantified in all four limbs by measuring the slopes of the regressions between stance and cycle durations (rSTA) and between swing and cycle durations (rSW). For a given limb, rSTA and rSW were not significantly different from one another on the constant side whereas on the varying side rSTA increased relative to tied-belt locomotion while rSW became more negative. Phase variations were similar for homolateral limbs. Increasing left-right speed differences produced a large increase in homolateral double support on the slow side, while triple-support periods decreased. Increasing left-right speed differences altered homologous coupling, homolateral coupling on the fast side, and coupling between the fast hindlimb and slow forelimb. Results indicate that homolateral limbs share similar control strategies, only certain features of the interlimb pattern adjust, and spinal locomotor networks of the left and right sides are organized symmetrically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe D'Angelo
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yann Thibaudier
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alessandro Telonio
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-France Hurteau
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Victoria Kuczynski
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Charline Dambreville
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alain Frigon
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche du CHUS, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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26
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Frigon A, D'Angelo G, Thibaudier Y, Hurteau MF, Telonio A, Kuczynski V, Dambreville C. Speed-dependent modulation of phase variations on a step-by-step basis and its impact on the consistency of interlimb coordination during quadrupedal locomotion in intact adult cats. J Neurophysiol 2014; 111:1885-902. [PMID: 24523521 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00524.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that stance duration changes more than swing duration for a given change in cycle duration. Small variations in cycle duration are also observed at any given speed on a step-by-step basis. To evaluate the step-by-step effect of speed on phase variations, we measured the slopes of the linear regressions between the phases (i.e., stance, swing) and cycle duration during individual episodes at different treadmill speeds in five adult cats. We also determined the pattern of dominance, defined as the phase that varies most with cycle duration. We found a significant effect of speed on hindlimb phase variations, with significant differences observed between the slowest speed of 0.3 m/s compared with faster speeds. Moreover, although patterns of phase dominance were primarily stance/extensor dominated at the slowest speeds, as speed increased the patterns were increasingly categorized as covarying, whereby both stance/extensor and swing/flexor phases changed in approximately equal proportion with cycle duration. Speed significantly affected the relative duration of support periods as well as interlimb phasing between homolateral and diagonal pairs of limbs but not between homologous pairs of limbs. Speed also significantly affected the consistency of interlimb coordination on a step-by-step basis, being less consistent at the slowest speed of 0.3 m/s compared with faster speeds. We found a strong linear relationship between hindlimb phase variations and the consistency of interlimb coordination. Therefore, results show that phase variations on a step-by-step basis are modulated by speed, which appears to influence the consistency of interlimb coordination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain Frigon
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche Clinique Étienne-Le Bel, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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27
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Schmidt A. Locomotion in degus on terrestrial substrates varying in orientation - implications for biomechanical constraints and gait selection. ZOOLOGY 2014; 117:146-59. [PMID: 24439459 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2013.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
To gain new insights into running gaits on sloped terrestrial substrates, metric and selected kinematic parameters of the common degu (Octodon degus) were examined. Individuals were filmed at their maximum voluntary running speed using a high-speed camera placed laterally to the terrestrial substrate varying in orientations from -30° to +30°, at 10° increments. Degus used trotting, lateral-sequence (LS) and diagonal-sequence (DS) running gaits at all substrate orientations. Trotting was observed across the whole speed range whereas DS running gaits occurred at significantly higher speeds than LS running gaits. Metric and kinematic changes on sloped substrates in degus paralleled those noted for most other mammals. However, the timing of metric and kinematic locomotor adjustments differed significantly between individual degus. In addition, most of these adjustments took place at 10° rather than 30° inclines and declines, indicating significant biomechanical demands even on slightly sloped terrestrial substrates. The results of this study suggest that DS and LS running gaits may represent an advantage in small to medium-sized mammals for counteracting some level of locomotor instability. Finally, changes in locomotor parameters of the forelimbs rather than the hindlimbs seem to play an important role in gait selection in small to medium-sized mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Schmidt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, 120 Life Science Building, Athens, OH 45701, USA.
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28
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Larsson M. Self-generated sounds of locomotion and ventilation and the evolution of human rhythmic abilities. Anim Cogn 2013; 17:1-14. [PMID: 23990063 PMCID: PMC3889703 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-013-0678-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2013] [Revised: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
It has been suggested that the basic building blocks of music mimic sounds of moving humans, and because the brain was primed to exploit such sounds, they eventually became incorporated in human culture. However, that raises further questions. Why do genetically close, culturally well-developed apes lack musical abilities? Did our switch to bipedalism influence the origins of music? Four hypotheses are raised: (1) Human locomotion and ventilation can mask critical sounds in the environment. (2) Synchronization of locomotion reduces that problem. (3) Predictable sounds of locomotion may stimulate the evolution of synchronized behavior. (4) Bipedal gait and the associated sounds of locomotion influenced the evolution of human rhythmic abilities. Theoretical models and research data suggest that noise of locomotion and ventilation may mask critical auditory information. People often synchronize steps subconsciously. Human locomotion is likely to produce more predictable sounds than those of non-human primates. Predictable locomotion sounds may have improved our capacity of entrainment to external rhythms and to feel the beat in music. A sense of rhythm could aid the brain in distinguishing among sounds arising from discrete sources and also help individuals to synchronize their movements with one another. Synchronization of group movement may improve perception by providing periods of relative silence and by facilitating auditory processing. The adaptive value of such skills to early ancestors may have been keener detection of prey or stalkers and enhanced communication. Bipedal walking may have influenced the development of entrainment in humans and thereby the evolution of rhythmic abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matz Larsson
- The Cardiology Clinic, Örebro University Hospital, 701 85, Örebro, Sweden,
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29
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Carlson KJ, Jashashvili T, Houghton K, Westaway MC, Patel BA. Joint loads in marsupial ankles reflect habitual bipedalism versus quadrupedalism. PLoS One 2013; 8:e58811. [PMID: 23554931 PMCID: PMC3595237 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Joint surfaces of limb bones are loaded in compression by reaction forces generated from body weight and musculotendon complexes bridging them. In general, joints of eutherian mammals have regions of high radiodensity subchondral bone that are better at resisting compressive forces than low radiodensity subchondral bone. Identifying similar form-function relationships between subchondral radiodensity distribution and joint load distribution within the marsupial postcranium, in addition to providing a richer understanding of marsupial functional morphology, can serve as a phylogenetic control in evaluating analogous relationships within eutherian mammals. Where commonalities are established across phylogenetic borders, unifying principles in mammalian physiology, morphology, and behavior can be identified. Here, we assess subchondral radiodensity patterns in distal tibiae of several marsupial taxa characterized by different habitual activities (e.g., locomotion). Computed tomography scanning, maximum intensity projection maps, and pixel counting were used to quantify radiodensity in 41 distal tibiae of bipedal (5 species), arboreal quadrupedal (4 species), and terrestrial quadrupedal (5 species) marsupials. Bipeds (Macropus and Wallabia) exhibit more expansive areas of high radiodensity in the distal tibia than arboreal (Dendrolagus, Phascolarctos, and Trichosurus) or terrestrial quadrupeds (Sarcophilus, Thylacinus, Lasiorhinus, and Vombatus), which may reflect the former carrying body weight only through the hind limbs. Arboreal quadrupeds exhibit smallest areas of high radiodensity, though they differ non-significantly from terrestrial quadrupeds. This could indicate slightly more compliant gaits by arboreal quadrupeds compared to terrestrial quadrupeds. The observed radiodensity patterns in marsupial tibiae, though their statistical differences disappear when controlling for phylogeny, corroborate previously documented patterns in primates and xenarthrans, potentially reflecting inferred limb use during habitual activities such as locomotion. Despite the complex nature of factors contributing to joint loads, broad observance of these patterns across joints and across a variety of taxa suggests that subchondral radiodensity can be used as a unifying form-function principle within Mammalia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian J Carlson
- Institute for Human Evolution, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
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30
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Thibaudier Y, Hurteau MF, Telonio A, Frigon A. Coordination between the fore- and hindlimbs is bidirectional, asymmetrically organized, and flexible during quadrupedal locomotion in the intact adult cat. Neuroscience 2013; 240:13-26. [PMID: 23485807 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2012] [Revised: 01/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Despite the obvious importance of inter-girdle coordination for quadrupedal locomotion in terrestrial mammals, its organization remains poorly understood. Here, we evaluated cycle and phase durations, as well as footfall patterns of four intact adult cats trained to walk on a transverse split-belt treadmill that could independently control fore- and hindlimb speed. When the hindlimbs walked at faster speeds than the forelimbs, an equal rhythm was always maintained between the fore- and hindlimbs, even at the highest fore-hindlimb speed ratio of 1:3 (0.4:1.2 m/s). The locomotor pattern adjusted through changes in both hindlimb stance and swing phase durations, whereas only the forelimb stance phase was affected. In such conditions, when fore- and hindlimb values were compared to those obtained at matched speeds during tied-belt walking (i.e. predicted values based on treadmill speed), hindlimb cycle, stance and swing durations were consistently longer than predicted. On the other hand, forelimb cycle and stance durations were shorter than predicted but only at the highest split-belt speed ratios. Forelimb swing durations were as predicted based on front-belt speed. The sequence of footfall pattern when hindlimb speed was faster was identical to tied-belt walking. In stark contrast, when the forelimbs walked at slightly faster speeds than the hindlimbs, the rhythm between the fore- and hindlimbs broke down. In such conditions, the locomotor pattern was adjusted through changes in stance and swing phase durations in both the fore- and hindlimbs. When the rhythm between the fore- and hindlimbs broke down, hindlimb cycle and phase durations were similar to predicted values, whereas forelimb values were shorter than predicted. Moreover, several additional sequences of footfall patterns were observed. Therefore, the results clearly demonstrate the existence of a bidirectional, asymmetric, and flexible control of inter-girdle coordination during quadrupedal locomotion in the intact adult cat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Thibaudier
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Centre de recherche Clinique Étienne-Le Bel, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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31
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Significance of adequate postural control in the appearance of habitual upright bipedal locomotion. Med Hypotheses 2012; 79:564-71. [PMID: 22883956 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2012.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2012] [Revised: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 07/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Analysis of qualitative indicators of stability of the body during different types of locomotion in primates suggests that bipedal locomotion is not variation of some other type of locomotion. Transition from quadrupedal to bipedal locomotion is accompanied by a qualitative difference in body stability. Because of assuming an upright bipedal posture, the center of mass is lifted, the surface of the base of support is reduced, and the body structure does not provide passive stability in relation to inertial moments of the body around Y-axis. Additional head movements, trunk rotations, forelimb manipulations with objects and surveying the surroundings are necessary for survival, but they increase the degree of freedom of movement and further complicate the task of maintaining balance in the case of a postural change from erect quadrupedal to erect bipedal. This article presents a hypothesis that the transition from quadrupedal to habitual upright bipedal locomotion was caused by qualitative changes in the nervous system that allowed controlling the more demanding type of locomotion. The ability to control a more demanding posture increases possibilities of interactions between the organism and the complex environment and consequently increases the survival rate, breeding possibilities, and chances for occupying a new environmental niche. Existing data show that ability to execute the more demanding type of locomotion was made possible because of changes in the frontal lobe and pyramidal system. Only after the more demanding posture was enabled by changes in the nervous system, could advantages of bipedal over quadrupedal locomotion be utilized, including better scanning of the environment, carrying food and infants, simultaneous upper extremity movements and observation of the environment, limitless manipulation of objects with upper extremities above the individual, and less space for rotating around the Z-axis. The aforementioned advantages of habitual bipedal over quadrupedal locomotion are present in physically complex environments, such as the forest, which is associated with the appearance of habitual bipedal locomotion.
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Young JW. Gait selection and the ontogeny of quadrupedal walking in squirrel monkeys (Saimiri boliviensis). AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2012; 147:580-92. [PMID: 22328448 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.22016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2011] [Accepted: 12/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jesse W Young
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44272, USA.
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Shapiro LJ, Young JW. Kinematics of quadrupedal locomotion in sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps): effects of age and substrate size. J Exp Biol 2012; 215:480-96. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.062588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
Arboreal mammals face unique challenges to locomotor stability. This is particularly true with respect to juveniles, who must navigate substrates similar to those traversed by adults, despite a reduced body size and neuromuscular immaturity. Kinematic differences exhibited by juveniles and adults on a given arboreal substrate could therefore be due to differences in body size relative to substrate size, to differences in neuromuscular development, or to both. We tested the effects of relative body size and age on quadrupedal kinematics in a small arboreal marsupial (the sugar glider, Petaurus breviceps; body mass range of our sample 33-97 g). Juvenile and adult P. breviceps were filmed moving across a flat board and three poles 2.5, 1.0 and 0.5 cm in diameter. Sugar gliders (regardless of age or relative speed) responded to relative decreases in substrate diameter with kinematic adjustments that promote stability; they increased duty factor, increased the average number of supporting limbs during a stride, increased relative stride length and decreased relative stride frequency. Limb phase increased when moving from the flat board to the poles, but not among poles. Compared with adults, juveniles (regardless of relative body size or speed) used lower limb phases, more pronounced limb flexion, and enhanced stability with higher duty factors and a higher average number of supporting limbs during a stride. We conclude that although substrate variation in an arboreal environment presents similar challenges to all individuals, regardless of age or absolute body size, neuromuscular immaturity confers unique problems to growing animals, requiring kinematic compensation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza J. Shapiro
- Department of Anthropology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712-0303, USA
| | - Jesse W. Young
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeastern Ohio Medical University (NEOMED, formerly known as the Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine), Rootstown, OH 44272, USA
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Weight support distribution during quadrupedal walking in Ateles and Cebus. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2011; 144:633-42. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.21460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2010] [Accepted: 10/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Nyakatura JA, Petrovitch A, Fischer MS. Limb kinematics during locomotion in the two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus, Xenarthra) and its implications for the evolution of the sloth locomotor apparatus. ZOOLOGY 2010; 113:221-34. [PMID: 20637572 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2009.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2009] [Revised: 09/15/2009] [Accepted: 11/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In order to gain insight into the function of the extant sloth locomotion and its evolution, we conducted a detailed videoradiographic analysis of two-toed sloth locomotion (Xenarthra: Choloepus didactylus). Both unrestrained as well as steady-state locomotion was analyzed. Spatio-temporal gait parameters, data on interlimb coordination, and limb kinematics are reported. Two-toed sloths displayed great variability in spatio-temporal gait parameters over the observed range of speeds. They increase speed by decreasing the durations of contact and swing phases, as well as by increasing step length. Gait utilization also varies with no strict gait sequence or interlimb timing evident in slow movements, but a tendency to employ diagonal sequence, diagonal couplet gaits in fast movements. In contrast, limb kinematics were highly conserved with respect to 'normal' pronograde locomotion. Limb element and joint angles at touch down and lift off, element and joint excursions, and contribution to body progression of individual elements are similar to those reported for non-cursorial mammals of small to medium size. Hands and feet are specialized to maintain firm connection to supports, and do not contribute to step length or progression. In so doing, the tarsometatarsus lost its role as an individual propulsive element during the evolution of suspensory locomotion. Conservative kinematic behavior of the remaining limb elements does not preclude that muscle recruitment and neuromuscular control for limb pro- and retraction are also conserved. The observed kinematic patterns of two-toed sloths improve our understanding of the convergent evolution of quadrupedal suspensory posture and locomotion in the two extant sloth lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Nyakatura
- Institut für Spezielle Zoologie und Evolutionsbiologie mit Phyletischem Museum, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Erbertstrasse 1, D-07743 Jena, Germany.
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Shapiro LJ, Young JW. Is primate-like quadrupedalism necessary for fine-branch locomotion? A test using sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps). J Hum Evol 2010; 58:309-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2009.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2009] [Revised: 12/22/2009] [Accepted: 12/28/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Schmitt D, Gruss LT, Lemelin P. Brief communication: Forelimb compliance in arboreal and terrestrial opossums. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2010; 141:142-6. [PMID: 19902451 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.21145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Primates display high forelimb compliance (increased elbow joint yield) compared to most other mammals. Forelimb compliance, which is especially marked among arboreal primates, moderates vertical oscillations of the body and peak vertical forces and may represent a basal adaptation of primates for locomotion on thin, flexible branches. However, Larney and Larson (Am J Phys Anthropol 125 [2004] 42-50) reported that marsupials have forelimb compliance comparable to or greater than that of most primates, but did not distinguish between arboreal and terrestrial marsupials. If forelimb compliance is functionally linked to locomotion on thin branches, then elbow yield should be highest in marsupials relying on arboreal substrates more often. To test this hypothesis, we compared forelimb compliance between two didelphid marsupials, Caluromys philander (an arboreal opossum relying heavily on thin branches) and Monodelphis domestica (an opossum that spends most of its time on the ground). Animals were videorecorded while walking on a runway or a horizontal 7-mm pole. Caluromys showed higher elbow yield (greater changes in degrees of elbow flexion) on both substrates, similar to that reported for arboreal primates. Monodelphis was characterized by lower elbow yield that was intermediate between the values reported by Larney and Larson (Am J Phys Anthropol 125 [2004] 42-50) for more terrestrial primates and rodents. This finding adds evidence to a model suggesting a functional link between arboreality--particularly locomotion on thin, flexible branches--and forelimb compliance. These data add another convergent trait between arboreal primates, Caluromys, and other arboreal marsupials and support the argument that all primates evolved from a common ancestor that was a fine-branch arborealist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Schmitt
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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Nyakatura JA, Heymann EW. Effects of support size and orientation on symmetric gaits in free-ranging tamarins of Amazonian Peru: implications for the functional significance of primate gait sequence patterns. J Hum Evol 2010; 58:242-51. [PMID: 20060568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2009.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2009] [Revised: 11/10/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The adoption of a specific gait sequence pattern during symmetrical locomotion has been proposed to have been a key advantage for the exploitation of the fine branch niche in early primates. Diverse aspects of primate locomotion have been extensively studied in technically equipped laboratory settings, but evolutionary conclusions derived from these investigations have rarely been verified in wild primates. Bridging the gap from the lab to the field, we conducted an actual performance determination of symmetrical gaits in two free-ranging tamarin species (Saguinus mystax and Saguinus fuscicollis) of Amazonian Peru by analyzing high-speed video recordings of naturally occurring locomotor bouts. Tamarins arguably represent viable models for aspects of early primate locomotion. We tested three specific hypotheses derived from laboratory studies to test for the influence of support size and orientation and to gain further insight into the functional significance of primate gait sequence patterns: (1) The tamarins utilize symmetrical gaits at a higher rate on small supports than on larger ones. (2) During symmetrical locomotion on small supports, diagonal sequences are utilized at a higher rate than on larger supports. (3) On inclines, diagonal sequences are predominantly used and on declines, lateral sequences are predominantly used. Our results corroborated hypotheses 1 and 3. We found no clear support for hypothesis 2. In conclusion, our results add to the notion that primate gait plasticity, rather than uniform adoption of diagonal sequence gaits, enabled early primates to accommodate different support types and effectively exploit the small branch niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Nyakatura
- Institut für Spezielle Zoologie und Evolutionsbiologie mit Phyletischem Museum, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Jena, Germany.
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Higurashi Y, Hirasaki E, Kumakura H. Gaits of Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata) on a horizontal ladder and arboreal stability. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2009; 138:448-57. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.20962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Fitzsimmons NA, Lebedev MA, Peikon ID, Nicolelis MAL. Extracting kinematic parameters for monkey bipedal walking from cortical neuronal ensemble activity. Front Integr Neurosci 2009; 3:3. [PMID: 19404411 PMCID: PMC2659168 DOI: 10.3389/neuro.07.003.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2009] [Accepted: 02/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to walk may be critically impacted as the result of neurological injury or disease. While recent advances in brain–machine interfaces (BMIs) have demonstrated the feasibility of upper-limb neuroprostheses, BMIs have not been evaluated as a means to restore walking. Here, we demonstrate that chronic recordings from ensembles of cortical neurons can be used to predict the kinematics of bipedal walking in rhesus macaques – both offline and in real time. Linear decoders extracted 3D coordinates of leg joints and leg muscle electromyograms from the activity of hundreds of cortical neurons. As more complex patterns of walking were produced by varying the gait speed and direction, larger neuronal populations were needed to accurately extract walking patterns. Extraction was further improved using a switching decoder which designated a submodel for each walking paradigm. We propose that BMIs may one day allow severely paralyzed patients to walk again.
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McElroy EJ, Hickey KL, Reilly SM. The correlated evolution of biomechanics, gait and foraging mode in lizards. J Exp Biol 2008; 211:1029-40. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.015503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYForaging mode has molded the evolution of many aspects of lizard biology. From a basic sit-and-wait sprinting feeding strategy, several lizard groups have evolved a wide foraging strategy, slowly moving through the environment using their highly developed chemosensory systems to locate prey. We studied locomotor performance, whole-body mechanics and gaits in a phylogenetic array of lizards that use sit-and-wait and wide-foraging strategies to contrast the functional differences associated with the need for speed vs slow continuous movement during foraging. Using multivariate and phylogenetic comparative analyses we tested for patterns of covariation in gaits and locomotor mechanics in relation to foraging mode. Sit-and-wait species used only fast speeds and trotting gaits coupled with running (bouncing) mechanics. Different wide-foraging species independently evolved slower locomotion with walking(vaulting) mechanics coupled with several different walking gaits, some of which have evolved several times. Most wide foragers retain the running mechanics with trotting gaits observed in sit-and-wait lizards, but some wide foragers have evolved very slow (high duty factor) running mechanics. In addition, three evolutionary reversals back to sit-and-wait foraging are coupled with the loss of walking mechanics. These findings provide strong evidence that foraging mode drives the evolution of biomechanics and gaits in lizards and that there are several ways to evolve slower locomotion. In addition, the different gaits used to walk slowly appear to match the ecological and behavioral challenges of the species that use them. Trotting appears to be a functionally stable strategy in lizards not necessarily related to whole-body mechanics or speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric J. McElroy
- Ohio Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Studies and Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA
| | - Kristin L. Hickey
- Ohio Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Studies and Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA
| | - Stephen M. Reilly
- Ohio Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Studies and Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA
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Stevens NJ. The effect of branch diameter on primate gait sequence pattern. Am J Primatol 2008; 70:356-62. [DOI: 10.1002/ajp.20499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Nyakatura JA, Fischer MS, Schmidt M. Gait parameter adjustments of cotton-top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus, Callitrichidae) to locomotion on inclined arboreal substrates. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2008; 135:13-26. [PMID: 17786994 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.20699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The influence of different substrate inclinations on gaits and metric gait parameters (relative forelimb and hind limb protraction, relative forelimb, and hind limb retraction, stride length, stance, and swing phase duration) of cotton-top tamarin locomotion was studied using high-speed video films and evaluated by descriptive and analytical statistical methods. As previously shown, lateral sequence gaits predominantly occurred on descending arboreal substrates (branchlike pole with a smaller diameter than the animal's body). Gait sequence patterns display significant dependency on substrate inclination. Cotton-top tamarins utilize lower diagonality values the more the substrate declines. This tendency leads to a greater use of lateral sequence gaits on steeply declined substrates. Conversely, these primates display the tendency to utilize higher diagonality values the more the substrate inclines leading to the predominant occurrence of diagonal sequence (DS) gaits. Duty factor index, extent of relative protraction, and relative retraction of both limb pairs as well as the relation of forelimb stance phase duration to hind limb stance phase duration is also correlated to the inclination of the substrate. Stride length and swing phase duration display no significant dependence on inclination, but are determined by the speed of the moving animal. The relevant duty factor is approximately constant at all inclinations. Integrating our results with results of other authors we propose a hypothesis for the functional relevance of a utilization of lateral sequence gaits in downward locomotion and DS gaits in upward locomotion. Our data support the notion of a wide ranging behavioral plasticity as a general primate locomotor characteristic.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Nyakatura
- Institut für Spezielle Zoologie und Evolutionsbiologie mit Phyletischem Museum, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Erbertstr. 1, 07743 Jena, Germany.
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Symmetrical gaits of Cebus apella: implications for the functional significance of diagonal sequence gait in primates. J Hum Evol 2007; 54:783-94. [PMID: 18155128 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2007.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2007] [Revised: 09/13/2007] [Accepted: 10/08/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Quadrupedal locomotion of primates is distinguished from the quadrupedalism of many other mammals by several features, including a diagonal sequence (DS) footfall used in symmetrical gaits. This presumably unique feature of primate locomotion has been attributed to an ancestral adaptation for cautious arboreal quadrupedalism on thin, flexible branches. However, the functional significance of DS gait remains largely hypothetical. The study presented here tests hypotheses about the functional significance of DS gait by analyzing the gait mechanics of a primate that alternates between DS and lateral sequence (LS) gaits, Cebus apella. Kinematic and kinetic data were gathered from two subjects as they moved across both terrestrial and simulated arboreal substrates. These data were used to test four hypotheses: (1) locomotion on arboreal supports is associated with increased use of DS gait, (2) DS gait is associated with lower peak vertical substrate reaction forces than LS gait, (3) DS gait is associated with greater forelimb/hind limb differentiation in force magnitudes, and (4) DS gait offers increased stability. Our results indicate that animals preferred DS gait on the arboreal substrate, and LS gait while on the ground. Peak vertical substrate reaction forces showed a tendency to be lower in DS gait, but not consistently so. Pole ("arboreal") forces were lower than ground forces in DS gait, but not in LS gait. The preferred symmetrical gait on both substrates was a grounded run or amble, with the body supported by only one limb throughout most of the stride. During periods of bilateral support, the DS gait had predominantly diagonal support couplets. This benefit for stability on an arboreal substrate is potentially outweighed by overstriding, its associated ipsilateral limb interference in DS gait and hind foot positioning in front of the hand on untested territory. DS gait also did not result in an optimal anchoring position of the hind foot under the center of mass of the body at forelimb touchdown. In sum, the results are mixed regarding the superiority of DS gait in an arboreal setting. Consequently, the notion that DS gait is an ancestral adaptation of primates, conditioned by the selection demands of an arboreal environment, remains largely hypothetical.
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Young JW, Patel BA, Stevens NJ. Body mass distribution and gait mechanics in fat-tailed dwarf lemurs (Cheirogaleus medius) and patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas). J Hum Evol 2007; 53:26-40. [PMID: 17512970 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2007.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2006] [Revised: 12/04/2006] [Accepted: 01/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Most quadrupeds walk with lateral sequence (LS) gaits, where hind limb touchdowns are followed by ipsilateral forelimb touchdowns. Primates, however, typically walk with diagonal sequence (DS) gaits, where hind limb touchdowns are followed by contralateral forelimb touchdowns. Because the use of DS gaits is nearly ubiquitous among primates, understanding gait selection in primates is critical to understanding primate locomotor evolution. The Support Polygon Model [Tomita, M., 1967. A study on the movement pattern of four limbs in walking. J. Anthropol. Soc. Nippon 75, 120-146; Rollinson, J., Martin, R.D., 1981. Comparative aspects of primate locomotion, with special reference to arboreal cercopithecines. Symp. Zool. Soc. Lond. 48, 377-427] argues that primates' use of DS gaits stems from a more caudal position of the whole-body center of mass (COM) relative to other mammals. We tested the predictions of the Support Polygon Model by examining the effects of natural and experimental variations in COM position on gait mechanics in two distantly related primates: fat-tailed dwarf lemurs (Cheirogaleus medius) and patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas). Dwarf lemur experiments compared individuals with and without a greatly enlarged tail (a feature associated with torpor that can be expected to shift the COM caudally). During patas monkey experiments, we experimentally shifted the COM cranially with the use of a weighted belt (7-12% of body mass) positioned above the scapulae. Examination of limb kinematics revealed changes consistent with systematic deviations in COM position. Nevertheless, footfall patterns changed in a direction contrary to the predictions of the Support Polygon Model in the dwarf lemurs and did not change at all in the patas monkey. These results suggest that body mass distribution is unlikely to be the sole determinant of footfall pattern in primates and other mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse W Young
- Interdepartmental Doctoral Program in Anthropological Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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Shapiro LJ, Raichlen DA. A response to Cartmill et al.: Primate gaits and arboreal stability. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2007. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.20613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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