A Novel Biting Mechanism in Damselfishes (Pomacentridae): the Pushing Up of the Lower Pharyngeal Jaw By the Pectoral Girdle
- 1 January 1996
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Brill in Netherlands Journal of Zoology
- Vol. 47 (4) , 405-410
- https://doi.org/10.1163/156854297x00085
Abstract
This study presents a novel mechanism for biting with the pharyngeal jaws in the labroid family Pomacentridae (damselfishes). Results of experiments in which 9 branchial and hyoid muscles were electrically stimulated are presented. Upon contraction of the m. protractor pectoralis the pectoral girdle is protracted and makes contact with the lower pharyngeal jaw resulting in the elevation of the lower pharyngeal jaw. The force of the m. protractor pectoralis contributes to the biting force of the m. levator externus 4 and m. levator posterior during biting and in this way increases the total biting force that can be exerted on prey.Keywords
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