The CT allowed us to visualise the bone in great detail, while the MRI provided greater muscle detail. Since it was not possible to use the iodine staining method in this study due to the size of the specimens, we chose to use both x-ray computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). porosus and identify similarities and differences in appendicular anatomy between it and other crocodilian species. This is coupled with a detailed anatomical description to broaden the knowledge base for C. In the present study the use of both CT and MRI has enabled the formation of interactive three-dimensional models of the forelimb and hindlimb musculature of C. For this reason, digital dissection on larger specimens involves the use of a combination of CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data. For large specimens, passive diffusion of contrast-enhancing agents is not possible as penetration to muscles reduces greatly with size. To counteract this disadvantage contrast-enhancing agents like iodine have proven to be extremely useful for identifying detailed muscle architectures in small specimens. However, often CT does not provide enough soft tissue detail to conduct an adequate digital dissection. Utilising computed tomography data (CT predominately microCT) is the most common method used for digital dissections. Published digital dissections have been conducted on a variety of vertebrate taxa, largely focusing on cranial musculature, with a single paper using this technique to study pes myology in elephants. Additionally, conducting a dissection digitally means anatomical features can be confirmed and re-examined. It further complements existing two-dimensional illustrations which are often simplified or stylised and hence open to misinterpretation.

This gives researchers the ability to better visualise different muscles and identify their anatomical position.

Conducting a digital dissection is a non-destructive method that allows users to interact with data in three-dimensions. ‘Digital dissection’ is a method which can aid in the interpretation and analysis of biological systems. Currently no appendicular anatomical studies exist for Crocodylus porosus Schneider, 1801 and only a single study exists on the limb functional morphology of this species. mississipiensis to investigate mobility, and in the hindlimb to investigate postural changes between fossil and extant forms. In addition, kinematic studies have also been undertaken on the forelimb of A. mississipiensis to a number of other crocodilian species, and individual species such as the South American Caiman latirostris, Southeast Asian Crocodylus siamensis, South American Crocodylus acutus, an unknown species of crocodile, and African Osteolaemus tetraspis. Many studies describe the limb anatomy of A. To date, research into the appendicular morphology of Crocodylia has largely focused on the American alligator ( Alligator mississippiensis). The locomotor variety apparent in both living and extinct members of the Crocodylia has promoted discussions on changes in musculoskeletal architecture of these clades. This is particularly true for the Crocodylia because they display a diversity of postures and gaits, from belly-sliding through to galloping, Consequently, anatomical and functional analyses of crocodilian musculature and locomotion have been widely used in muscle reconstructions of dinosaurs. Investigation into the evolution and functional morphology of locomotion requires a detailed understanding of appendicular anatomy. For the hindlimb, a reduction in the number of heads of ambiens was noted as well as changes to the location of origin and insertion for iliofibularis and gastrocnemius externus. In the forelimb, differences are restricted to a single tendon of origin for triceps longus medialis. porosus and other groups within the Crocodylia were found. Differences in the arrangement of musculature between C.

Muscles of the forelimb and hindlimb are described and three-dimensional interactive models are included based on CT and MRI scans as well as fresh-tissue dissections. porosus is important, not only because it will expand research into crocodilian locomotion, but because of its potential to inform muscle reconstructions in dinosaur taxa. A better understanding of this until now poorly known system in C. Here we present the results of a digital dissection on the appendicular musculature of the Australian estuarine crocodile ( Crocodylus porosus). It can be used to rapidly disseminate detailed, three-dimensional information in an easily accessible manner that reduces the need for destructive, traditional dissections. Digital dissection is a relatively new technique that has enabled scientists to gain a better understanding of vertebrate anatomy.

Essential anatomy 3 split skull