Mallard hindlimbs locomotion system respond to changes in sandy ground hardness and slope.
Sci Rep
; 14(1): 15536, 2024 Jul 05.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38969710
ABSTRACT
Mallards inhabit soft grounds such as mudflats, marshes, and beaches, demonstrating remarkable proficiency in traversing these grounds. This adeptness is closely linked to the adjustments in the operation of their hindlimbs. This study employs high-speed videography to observe postural adjustments during locomotion across mudflats. Analysis of spatiotemporal parameters of the hindlimbs reveals transient and continuous changes in joints (tarsometatarso-phalangeal joint (TMTPJ), intertarsal joint (ITJ), knee, and hip) during movement on different ground hardness and slope (horizontal and uphill). The results indicate that as the stride length of the mallard increases, its speed also increases. Additionally, the stance phase duration decreases, leading to a decrease in the duty factor. Reduced ground hardness and increased slope lead to delayed adjustment of the TMTPJ, ITJ, and knee. Mallards adjust their stride length by augmenting ITJ flexion on steeper slopes, while reduced hardness prompts a decrease in TMTPJ flexion at touch-down. Additionally, the hip undergoes two brief extensions during the stance phase, indicating its crucial role in posture adjustment and propulsion on uphill grounds. Overall, the hindlimb joints of the mallard function as a whole musculoskeletal system, with each joint employing a distinct strategy for adjusting to adapt to various ground conditions.
Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Miembro Posterior
/
Locomoción
Límite:
Animals
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Sci Rep
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
China