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Kinematic model of tyrannosaurid (dinosauria: theropoda) arctometatarsus function
Author(s) -
Snively Eric,
Russell Anthony P.
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
journal of morphology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.652
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1097-4687
pISSN - 0362-2525
DOI - 10.1002/jmor.10059
Subject(s) - theropoda , anatomy , osteology , biology , kinematics , geology , paleontology , cretaceous , physics , classical mechanics
We present a hypothesis of tyrannosaurid foot function termed the “tensile keystone model,” in which the triangular central metatarsal and elastic ligaments dynamically strengthened the foot. The tyrannosaurid arctometatarsus, in which the central metatarsal is proximally constricted, displays osteological correlates of distal intermetatarsal ligaments. The distal wedge‐like imbrication of tyrannosaurid metatarsals indicates that rebounding ligaments drew the outer elements towards the middle digit early in the stance phase, unifying the arctometatarsus under high loadings. This suggests increased stability and resistance to dissociation and implies, but does not demonstrate, greater agility than in large theropods without an arctometatarsus. J. Morphol. 255:215–227, 2003. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.