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Project

Evolutionary biomechanics of the vestibular system of lizards: a modelling approach

Lacertid lizard species show a remarkable diversity in locomotion behaviours. Depending on their habitat and ecology, some species move in a highly dynamical and fast manner, while others are characterised by slow movements. Thus, their locomotion behaviours most likely pose different demands on their balance control. The 3 semi-circular (SC) canals of the vestibular system are crucial in this regard, because they sense angular accelerations of the head. Hence, we hypothesise that the vestibular system is adapted to species-specific locomotion behaviour. We will perform a comparative study of the geometrical and functional properties of the SC canals of Lacertidae. Usually, the bony SC walls are investigated, but we will focus on the membranous walls because these determine the vestibular system mechanics. To facilitate future studies, we will compare the geometry of the bony and the membranous morphology, and study the functional consequences. The membranous SC canals are filled with endolymph fluid that deforms a cupula and its sensors when accelerated angularly. We will investigate the fluid dynamical properties of the 3 interconnected SC canals with a Fluid-Structure Interaction model. We will thoroughly examine the functional consequences of the geometry (i.e. anatomy) and in vivo excitation (i.e. behaviour) on sensitivity and response time in lacertid lizards. This will facilitate future comparative studies, which are currently unequivocal in this regard.
Date:1 Oct 2017 →  30 Sep 2021
Keywords:FLUID MODELS, VERTEBRATES, VESTIBULAR SYSTEM
Disciplines:Animal biology, Biomechanics, Veterinary medicine
Project type:Collaboration project