Abstract
AbstractThe cross‐sectional geometric properties of the crocodylian humerus were examined in order to assess the effects of differential locomotor behaviour and habitat use on osteological properties. Several biomechanical properties of the humerus were calculated, including resistance to compression and tension, bending and torsion resistance. The biomechanical properties of the crocodylian humerus reflect little variation attributable to locomotor behaviour or natural habitat use (terrestrialvsaquatic habitat). However, the biomechanical properties of captive individuals differed from those of wild conspecifics. The results of this research suggest that crocodylian humeri maintain sufficient resistance to all loading conditions throughout life with little remodelling, though both resorption and remodelling of bone are known to occur. Consequently, crocodylian humeri do not respond to stresses incurred during life as predicted by Wolff's Law.
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