Logo image
Atlas of Skeletal Anatomy: Short-Beaked Echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)
Dataset - Compiled Data   Open access

Atlas of Skeletal Anatomy: Short-Beaked Echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)

Natalie Warburton
Veterinary Anatomy Department, Murdoch University
2024
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60867/00000025
pdf
Atlas of Skeletal Anatomy ECHIDNA 20242.89 MBDownloadView
Open Access

Abstract

Monotremes embody many unique aspects of mammalian evolution, and their skeletal anatomy presents features that differ markedly from the placental mammals that dominate comparative anatomy texts. The creation of this skeletal atlas short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) has been guided by the recognition of a need for a comprehensive anatomical reference that can serve as a resource for researchers across fields including veterinary, comparative anatomy, conservation biology, and palaeontology. Mammalian skeletal systems are characterised by a range of specialised traits reflecting their distinct evolutionary lineages and ecological niches. The echidna's skeleton features a characteristic sprawling gait, reptilian-likepectoral girdle and forelimbs that are specialised for their particular mode of humeral-rotation digging. These characteristics, coupled with the limited availability of anatomical resources for the taxa, make this atlas a valuable resource for anyone engaged in the study of biological form and function.

Details

Metrics

170 File views/ downloads
239 Record Views
Logo image