Mechanical output in jumps of marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)

Abstract

Summary In this study we determined the mechanical output of marmosets during jumping. Vertical ground reaction forces were measured in 18 common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) while they jumped from an instrumented crossbar to a crossbar located 70 cm higher. From the vertical force time histories, we calculated the rate of change of mechanical energy of the centre of mass (dE/dt). The mean value of dE/dt during the push-off amounted to 51.8 (6.2) W/kg body mass, and the peak value to 116.4 (17.6) W/kg body mass. We used these values in combination with masses of leg muscles, determined in two specimens, to estimate mean and peak values of dE/dt of 430 W/kg muscle and 970 W/kg muscle, respectively. These values are higher than values reported in the literature for jumps of humans and bonobos, but smaller than those of jumps of bushbabies. Surprisingly, the mean value of dE/dt of 430 W/kg muscle was close to the maximal power output of 516 W/kg muscle reported in the literature for isokinetic contractions of rat medial gastrocnemius, one of the fastest mammalian muscles. Further study of the force-velocity relationship of muscle tissue of small primates seems indicated.