Three-dimensional Imaging of the Manipulating Apparatus in the Lesser Panda and the Giant Panda

Abstract

The unique manipulation mechanism has been morphologically examined in the lesser panda (Ailurus fulgens) (Endo et al. 2001b). Since the manipulating radial sesamoid bone is weakly attached to the palm region, our data suggest that the lesser panda can adjust the supporting bar of the radial sesamoid bone during the seizing action. The lesser panda and the giant panda (Aliluropoda melanoleuca) have independently evolved a specialized manipulation mechanism using the radial sesamoid bone. The skillful manipulating system consists of a huge radial sesamoid bone in the giant panda, and this species can strongly seize bamboo stems unlike the lesser panda (Endo et al. 1999a, c, Endo et al. 2001a). Our results have clarified the parallel evolution of the extraordinary manipulating system in the lesser panda and the giant panda. However, the three-dimensional simulation of the radial sesamoid bone had not been undertaken in the lesser panda.