What is the primary functional implication of the African wild dog's reduced digit count related to locomotion?
Answer
It contributes to the efficiency of their gait for endurance running
The streamlined paw, lacking the extra weight and surface area of a dewclaw, contributes to the overall efficiency of their gait over many kilometers, supporting their role as endurance runners.
Related Questions
How many toes does an African wild dog possess on each paw?What feature is typically retained by most domestic dogs on their forelimbs but absent in *Lycaon pictus*?What is the primary functional implication of the African wild dog's reduced digit count related to locomotion?What category of animal best describes the African wild dog based on its physiology geared toward sustained pursuit?How does the four-toed setup aid the African wild dog when hunting prey with superior top-end speed?What evolutionary pressure appears linked to the loss of the dewclaw in *Lycaon pictus*?What distinct vocalizations do African wild dogs use, contrasting with wolves?What is often cited as the success rate of African wild dog hunts, reflecting their behavioral and physical efficiency?What anatomical trade-off is illustrated by their specialization for endurance running?Besides physical structure, what social behavior supports the demanding lifestyle of the pack?What might be a potential benefit of the simplified paw structure regarding durability?