What is the standard mode of terrestrial locomotion utilized by Western Gorillas?
Answer
Knuckle-walking.
The standard way Western Gorillas move across the forest floor is through knuckle-walking, which is a specialized form of quadrupedal locomotion. This method involves supporting the majority of the upper body weight directly onto the knuckles of their hands rather than using the palms for contact with the ground. This adaptation is crucial for efficient navigation through dense forest environments. The physical structure of their hands and feet is perfectly suited for this ground-based movement, distinguishing them from primates that spend more time in trees.
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