The correlation of the morphological peculiarities of the hindlimb in mammals, concerning the autopodium, depending on the type of ground support

Abstract

In digitigrade and plantigrade species, the head of the talus distinctly appears which together with the glenoid cavity provided by the central bone also favor lateral movements, offering better adaptability. The essential differences are observed at the level of the metatarsal head, where carnivores and plantigrade animals have a dorsal hemispherical joint surface, completed by a real crest in the plantar side, delimiting two condyles separated by an intermediate crest. This is essential for the digitigrade and plantigrade type because when the limb takes contact with the ground, the joints hyperextension also occurs and a finger abduction movement, widening the support area.