Plantigrade
Plantigrade
Plantigrade (pronounced: plan-ti-grade) is a term used in anatomy and zoology to describe a particular mode of locomotion in which the organism places its entire foot on the ground, including the heel and toes. This is in contrast to digitigrade and unguligrade locomotion, where only the toes or the tips of the toes touch the ground, respectively.
Etymology
The term "plantigrade" comes from the Latin words planta meaning "sole" and gradus meaning "step". It was first used in the early 19th century to describe the walking style of certain mammals.
Related Terms
- Digitigrade: A mode of locomotion where the animal walks on its digits, or toes.
- Unguligrade: A mode of locomotion where the animal walks on the tips of its toes, which are often adapted into hooves.
- Locomotion: The act or ability of moving from place to place.
- Anatomy: The branch of science concerned with the bodily structure of humans, animals, and other living organisms.
- Zoology: The scientific study of the behavior, structure, physiology, classification, and distribution of animals.
Examples of Plantigrade Animals
Many mammals, including humans, bears, rodents, and rabbits, exhibit plantigrade locomotion. This type of locomotion is less efficient than digitigrade or unguligrade locomotion in terms of speed, but it provides greater stability and strength, making it advantageous for animals that climb or require precise movements.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Plantigrade
- Wikipedia's article - Plantigrade
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