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Project

Physiological role of osteoderms in amphibians and reptiles.

Osteoderms, bony elements embedded in the skin of various extinct and modern animals, constitute an important component of the tetrapod integumentary system. As a result, a plethora of studies have been undertaken to examine the functional significance of these enigmatic structures. Although it is generally accepted that osteoderms are part of body armour and primarily serve to defend prey against attacks from predators, virtually no experimental studies have been conducted to support this hypothesis. Instead, recent studies suggest that alternative selective pressures might have shaped the evolution of osteoderms. This study aims to reduce the present discrepancy by investigating the physiological role of osteoderms. More specifically this study examines the role of osteoderms in thermoregulation and in the prevention of water loss through the skin. By examining these physiological characteristics in a diversity of animal groups (i.e., frogs, geckoes and crocodilians), the ultimate goal of the research project is to provide more insight into the evolution of osteoderms and the conditions under which these enigmatic structures could have evolved.
Date:1 Apr 2018 →  31 Mar 2019
Keywords:TOMOGRAPHY, FUNCTIONAL MORPHOLOGY, PHYSIOLOGY (ANIMAL), THERMOREGULATION
Disciplines:Animal biology, General biology, Medical imaging and therapy, Other paramedical sciences, Veterinary medicine