What happens to the tail's structure when a lizard regenerates it after autotomy?
Answer
It develops as a cartilaginous rod instead of bone
When a lizard employs autotomy, sacrificing its tail to escape a predator, the replacement structure is structurally inferior to the original. The initial tail is supported by true bone vertebrae, which contributes to its role as a counterweight and fat storage organ. However, the regenerated tissue that grows back lacks this skeletal framework, developing instead as a rod composed of cartilage. This significant physical alteration means the replacement tail cannot perfectly mimic the balance or mechanical efficiency of the original, meaning an animal that frequently sheds its tail may experience cumulative impacts on its overall agility.
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