REILLY, Stephen M.*; WILLEY, Jeffrey S.; BIKNEVICIUS, Audrone R.: Locomotory dymanics of a Semi-erect posture: Correlating kinematics with kinetics in walking alligators.

Ground reaction forces, whole body mechanics and limb kinematics were quantified for alligators as several subjects walked over force platforms. Kinematic and kinetic analyses will be brought together to describe the dynamic relationships between limb segment movements, whole body mechanics, and propulsive forces. The results indicate that the semi-erect locomotory posture of alligators exhibits unique features compared to other semi-erect and erect forms and that the locomotion is surprisingly expensive. The unique features and inefficient mechanics of alligators appear to be a direct consequence of dragging the tail. Supported by NSF Grants IBN 9727212 and IBN 0080158