Comparative Foot Evolution, Set of 4

COMP-145 $955.00

This set showcases the varying adaptations of the primate foot. Foot morphology in primates has to do with how the foot is used to move through environments and, in some cases, how it is used to manipulate objects.

The big toe in Ardipithecus ramidus is opposable but lacks key features that enable the unique grasping ability seen in chimpanzees. Interestingly, the morphology of the metatarsals indicates some substantial adaptations to upright walking.

The foot of Homo floresiensis exhibits some human-like qualities such as a non-grasping big toe, while retaining some primitive features such as long curved toes and lack of a foot arch. Since the foot lacks an arch, there would have been limitations in efficient running and walking.

Because of our bipedal mode of locomotion, the human, Homo sapiens, foot has developed highly derived anatomy resulting in a foot that serves as a shock absorber, energy store/converter, and locomotor lever.

The foot of the chimpanzee, Pan troglodytes, has an opposable big toe, which allows for the unique ability to grasp objects. The mid foot is greatly shortened when compared to other primates. The versatility of the chimpanzee foot allows for brachiation, quadrupedal locomotion, and occasional bipedal locomotion.