The kangaroo's tail propels and powers pentapedal locomotion

Author:

O'Connor Shawn M.1,Dawson Terence J.2,Kram Rodger3,Donelan J. Maxwell1

Affiliation:

1. Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada

2. School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

3. Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA

Abstract

When moving slowly, kangaroos plant their tail on the ground in sequence with their front and hind legs. To determine the tail's role in this ‘pentapedal’ gait, we measured the forces the tail exerts on the ground and calculated the mechanical power it generates. We found that the tail is responsible for as much propulsive force as the front and hind legs combined. It also generates almost exclusively positive mechanical power, performing as much mass-specific mechanical work as does a human leg during walking at the same speed. Kangaroos use their muscular tail to support, propel and power their pentapedal gait just like a leg.

Publisher

The Royal Society

Subject

General Agricultural and Biological Sciences,Agricultural and Biological Sciences (miscellaneous)

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