Future tail tales: A forward-looking, integrative perspective on tail research

Authors

M. J. Schwaner, University of California, Irvine
S. T. Hsieh, College of Science and Technology
I. Braasch, Michigan State University
S. Bradley, University of Guelph
C. B. Campos, California State University, Sacramento
C. E. Collins, California State University, Sacramento
C. M. Donatelli, University of Ottawa
F. E. Fish, West Chester University
O. E. Fitch, Michigan State University
B. E. Flammang, New Jersey Institute of Technology
B. E. Jackson, Longwood University
A. Jusufi, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems
P. J. Mekdara, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
A. Patel, University of Cape Town
B. J. Swalla, University of Washington
M. Vickaryous, University of Guelph
C. P. McGowan, Keck School of Medicine of USC

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

8-1-2021

Abstract

Synopsis Tails are a defining characteristic of chordates and show enormous diversity in function and shape. Although chordate tails share a common evolutionary and genetic-developmental origin, tails are extremely versatile in morphology and function. For example, tails can be short or long, thin or thick, and feathered or spiked, and they can be used for propulsion, communication, or balancing, and they mediate in predator-prey outcomes. Depending on the species of animal the tail is attached to, it can have extraordinarily multi-functional purposes. Despite its morphological diversity and broad functional roles, tails have not received similar scientific attention as, for example, the paired appendages such as legs or fins. This forward-looking review article is a first step toward interdisciplinary scientific synthesis in tail research. We discuss the importance of tail research in relation to five topics: (1) evolution and development, (2) regeneration, (3) functional morphology, (4) sensorimotor control, and (5) computational and physical models. Within each of these areas, we highlight areas of research and combinations of long-standing and new experimental approaches to move the field of tail research forward. To best advance a holistic understanding of tail evolution and function, it is imperative to embrace an interdisciplinary approach, re-integrating traditionally siloed fields around discussions on tail-related research.

Identifier

85116172530 (Scopus)

Publication Title

Integrative and Comparative Biology

External Full Text Location

https://doi.org/10.1093/icb/icab082

e-ISSN

15577023

ISSN

15407063

PubMed ID

33999184

First Page

521

Last Page

537

Issue

2

Volume

61

Grant

1453106

Fund Ref

National Science Foundation

Recommended Citation

Schwaner, M. J.; Hsieh, S. T.; Braasch, I.; Bradley, S.; Campos, C. B.; Collins, C. E.; Donatelli, C. M.; Fish, F. E.; Fitch, O. E.; Flammang, B. E.; Jackson, B. E.; Jusufi, A.; Mekdara, P. J.; Patel, A.; Swalla, B. J.; Vickaryous, M.; and McGowan, C. P., "Future tail tales: A forward-looking, integrative perspective on tail research" (2021). Faculty Publications. 3943.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/fac_pubs/3943