Functional morphology of the aardvark tail

Area of Science:

• Comparative anatomy
• Functional morphology
• Vertebrate paleontology

Background:

• The aardvark (Orycteropus afer) is a unique mammal known for its fossorial adaptations.
• Understanding the musculoskeletal system is key to explaining its specialized behaviors, such as digging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the detailed morphology of the aardvark tail's musculoskeletal system.
• To investigate the functional implications of tail anatomy in relation to digging behavior.

Main Methods:

• Morphological examination of tail musculature in two adult aardvark specimens.
• Computed tomography (CT) scans to visualize internal structures like inter-vertebral discs and tendons.
• Analysis of tail structure in various positions to infer biomechanical function.

Main Results:

• The tail musculature is organized into distinct dorsal, lateral, and ventral sacrocaudal systems with significant tendon groups.
• CT revealed large, homogeneous cartilaginous inter-vertebral discs and unique V-shaped bones ventrally at vertebral junctions.
• Tendons and V-shaped bones appear to support trunk weight and provide force during soil displacement by forelimbs.

Conclusions:

• The aardvark's tail possesses specialized anatomical features, including robust musculature and unique skeletal/tendinous elements.
• These adaptations likely play a crucial role in supporting the body and generating force during the aardvark's powerful digging activities.