In:
Journal of Experimental Biology, The Company of Biologists, ( 2015-01-01)
Abstract:
Locomotion of plantigrade generalists has been relatively little studied compared to more specialised postures even though plantigrady is ancestral among quadrupeds. Bears (Ursidae) are a representative family for plantigrade carnivorans, they have the majority of the morphological characteristics identified for plantigrade species, and they have the full range of generalist behaviours. This study compares the locomotion of adult grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis Linnaeus 1758), including stride parameters, gaits and analysis of three dimensional ground reaction forces, to previously studied quadrupeds. At slow to moderate speeds grizzly bears use walks, running walks, and canters. Vertical ground reaction forces demonstrated the typical M-shaped curve for walks, however this was significantly more pronounced in the hind limb. The rate of force development was also significantly higher for the hind than the forelimbs at all speeds. Mediolateral forces were significantly higher than would be expected for a large erect mammal, almost to the extent of a sprawling crocodilian. There may be morphological or energetic explanations for the use of the running walk rather than the trot. The high medial forces (produced from a lateral push by the animal) could be caused by frontal plane movement of the carpus and elbow by bears. Overall, while grizzly bears share some similarities with large cursorial species, their locomotor kinetics have unique characteristics. Additional studies are needed to determine if these characters are a feature of all bears or plantigrade species.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1477-9145
,
0022-0949
Language:
English
Publisher:
The Company of Biologists
Publication Date:
2015
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1413561-9
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1482461-9
SSG:
12
