Biological Significance of the Komodo Dragon's Tail (Varanus komodoensis , Varanidae).

Autor: Tomańska, Anna, Stawinoga, Martyna, Szturo, Kacper, Styczyńska, Marzena, Klećkowska-Nawrot, Joanna, Janeczek, Maciej, Goździewska-Harłajczuk, Karolina, Melnyk, Oleksii, Gębarowski, Tomasz
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Zdroj: Animals (2076-2615); Aug2024, Vol. 14 Issue 15, p2142, 27p
Abstrakt: Simple Summary: This study presents morphological research on the tail, with particular emphasis on its skeleton, musculature, and accumulated fat tissue. Additionally, it provides an examination of the spinal cord and anal glands of the Komodo dragon. This project sheds new light on the biological importance of the tail in this lizard, offering insights into conservation implications, which are of utmost importance due to the threat of extinction of this species. As a result of the conducted research is a multifaceted analysis of the tail, with particular emphasis on its numerous biological functions. The Komodo dragon is a unique reptile with an elongated tail that exhibits hitherto unknown adaptations and functions. This tail, composed of 60–86 vertebrae, serves diverse ecological and physiological roles. In juveniles, it is essential for an arboreal lifestyle and balance, while in adults, it functions as a tool for defense and offensive actions. It possesses characteristic haemal arches and a dorsal keel, along with well-developed muscles which enable precise tail control, influencing the Komodo dragon's maneuverability and directional changes. The tail stores adipose tissue, providing Komodo dragons with the ability to regulate body temperature and independence from other seasonal variations. The tail adipose tissue impacts numerous biochemical processes and may play a crucial role in the animals' metabolic strategies and reproductive capabilities. Its functions include providing essential mineral compounds for the organism, such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Analysing the biochemical composition of tail fat is crucial for understanding the health of Komodo dragons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index
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