Meeting Abstract
The field of comparative biomechanics strives to understand the diversity of the biological world through the lens of physics. To accomplish this, researchers apply a variety of modelling approaches to explore the evolution of form and function across phylogeny. These models range from basic lever mechanics, to physical models, to intricate computer simulations. While advances in technology have allowed for increasing model complexity there is still great insight to be gained through the use of relatively simple models with few parameters. Models are not literal representations of reality but simplifications of the events, scenarios or behaviors being studied. Any model, regardless of how complex, must make assumptions; simple models just make more assumptions than complex ones. While a complex model may account for more parameters simultaneously, simple models allow for individual parameters to be isolated and tested systematically, as seen in studies on vertebrate tooth form. More generalized models with fewer parameters means that a model can be applied across a wider range of organisms. As an example, physics models have been used to identify trade-offs common to power-amplified systems across a wide range of organisms. Simple models also make good starting points for comparative studies, allowing for complexity to be added as needed. To demonstrate these ideas, I perform a case study on body form in ants. Basic center of mass calculations are used to explore constraints and adaptation to proportions in ant body form across major ant clades. Results illustrate how simple, low-parameter models both highlight fundamental biomechanical trends, and aid in crystallizing specific questions and hypotheses for more complex models to address.
