What is the functional implication of the heavy musculature anchored by the shoulder hump structure?
Answer
Built more for straight-line power and pushing through obstacles
The robust shoulder structure, composed of the massive hump supported by long neural spines, dictates the functional biomechanics of the Wood Bison. This heavy musculature is optimized for generating and delivering power in a linear fashion. Consequently, these bison are inherently structured for straight-line force generation, enabling them to effectively push through dense barriers such as thick vegetation or deep snow accumulations. This physiological emphasis on raw power contrasts with the agility expected in lighter ungulates, aligning their build with the demands of their rigorous habitat.
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