FOOD INGESTION IN THE ESTUARINE TURTLE MALACLEMYS TERRAPIN: COMPARISON WITH THE MARINE LEATHERBACK TURTLE DERMOCHELYS CORIACEA

摘要

This study sheds light on the evolution of aquatic and terrestrial feeding modes in vertebrates, using two aquatic turtles as models. The estuarine aquatic diamondback turtle Malaclemys terrapin has a feeding mechanism that is similar to the basic feeding mechanism of terrestrial tetrapods (jaw gape cycles incorporate slow opening, fast opening, fast closing and slow closing phases). Strikes upon prey also involve neck extension and cycles of the forelimbs. Malaclemys terrapin modulate their feeding behaviour and jaw action in relation to the nature of the prey item. Mussels are approached by walking on the substratum, and limb cycles are of small amplitude during the strike.