Quadrupedalism

Quadrupedalism is locomotion in which an animal uses all four limbs for support or propulsion. It occurs in animals with varied anatomies and includes distinct walking, running, and climbing patterns.

Gait: A pattern of limb movements used during locomotion. Quadrupedal animals use different gaits to coordinate their four limbs.
Tetrapod: A vertebrate belonging to the lineage characterized by four limbs and their descendants. Quadrupedal locomotion is common among tetrapods, though some tetrapods use fewer limbs.
Cursoriality: An adaptation for efficient running, especially over extended distances. Cursorial quadrupeds modify limb proportions and gait for sustained terrestrial speed.
Bipedalism: Locomotion in which an animal moves using two limbs for support or propulsion. Bipedalism relies on two limbs rather than four for locomotor support.
Walk (gait): A gait in which limbs move in a sequence while the body remains supported. Walking is a common quadrupedal gait with continuous support from the limbs.
Limb: An appendage used for movement or manipulation, typically attached to the body at a joint. Quadrupedal movement depends on the coordinated action of four limbs.
Arboreal locomotion: Movement through trees and other elevated structures. Many quadrupeds use all four limbs to balance and travel along branches.
Tripedalism: Locomotion that uses three limbs for support or propulsion. Tripedalism uses fewer supporting limbs and is uncommon as a regular gait.
Trot: A gait in which diagonal limb pairs move together in alternating steps. Many quadrupeds use the trot to increase speed while preserving a regular rhythm.
Spine: The vertebral column that supports the body and protects the spinal cord in vertebrates. Spinal structure influences how the trunk moves between the supporting limbs.

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