Knowra Tail Tail A tail is an extension of an animal’s body behind the torso, formed from vertebrae or other tissues. It can support movement, balance, defense, communication, or other functions.
Prehensile tail : A tail adapted to grasp or wrap around objects, often through muscular control. Some climbing mammals use tails as an extra limb for gripping branches.
Caudal vertebrae : The vertebrae forming the tail portion of an animal’s spine. In vertebrate tails, these bones provide the structural axis for muscles and movement.
Vertebral column : The segmented column of bones or cartilage that supports the back in vertebrates. In many vertebrates, the tail continues the vertebral column beyond the pelvis.
Kangaroo : A large Australian marsupial that moves mainly by hopping on powerful hind legs. Kangaroos use their strong tails for support and balance, including during slow movement.
Caudal fin : The tail fin of a fish or other aquatic animal, used chiefly for propulsion. In many fishes, the tail’s fin supplies thrust for swimming.
Axial skeleton : The bones along an animal’s central axis, including the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage. A vertebrate tail is an extension of the axial skeleton.
Caudal appendage : A structure projecting from the rear end of an animal’s body. The broader anatomical idea includes tails that are not built from vertebrae.
Gecko : A lizard belonging to the infraorder Gekkota, found in warm regions worldwide. Many geckos store fat in their tails and can shed them under threat.
Tail autotomy : The voluntary shedding of a body part, especially a tail, as a defensive escape strategy. Some lizards detach their tails to distract predators while they flee.
Animal locomotion : The movement of animals from place to place by walking, swimming, flying, or other means. Tail mechanics are one part of how animals produce and control locomotion.
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