Biological Significance of the Komodo Dragon's Tail ( Varanus komodoensis , Varanidae)

The Komodo dragon is a unique reptile with an elongated tail that exhibits hitherto unknown adaptations and functions. This tail, composed of 60-86 vertebrae, serves diverse ecological and physiological roles. In juveniles, it is essential for an arboreal lifestyle and balance, while in adults, it f...

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Published in:Animals (Basel) 2024-08, Vol.14 (15), p.2142
Main Authors: Tomańska, Anna, Stawinoga, Martyna, Szturo, Kacper, Styczyńska, Marzena, Klećkowska-Nawrot, Joanna, Janeczek, Maciej, Goździewska-Harłajczuk, Karolina, Melnyk, Oleksii, Gębarowski, Tomasz
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adipose tissues
Archaeology
Biodiversity
Endangered & extinct species
Extinction (Biology)
Fatty acids
Females
Life sciences
monitor lizard
Morphology
Museums
Nutrition
Physiological aspects
reptile anatomy
Varanus komodoensis
Vertebrae
Veterinary medicine
Zoology
Zoos
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Summary:The Komodo dragon is a unique reptile with an elongated tail that exhibits hitherto unknown adaptations and functions. This tail, composed of 60-86 vertebrae, serves diverse ecological and physiological roles. In juveniles, it is essential for an arboreal lifestyle and balance, while in adults, it functions as a tool for defense and offensive actions. It possesses characteristic haemal arches and a dorsal keel, along with well-developed muscles which enable precise tail control, influencing the Komodo dragon's maneuverability and directional changes. The tail stores adipose tissue, providing Komodo dragons with the ability to regulate body temperature and independence from other seasonal variations. The tail adipose tissue impacts numerous biochemical processes and may play a crucial role in the animals' metabolic strategies and reproductive capabilities. Its functions include providing essential mineral compounds for the organism, such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Analysing the biochemical composition of tail fat is crucial for understanding the health of Komodo dragons.
ISSN:2076-2615
2076-2615
DOI:10.3390/ani14152142