FUNCTIONAL-ANATOMY OF THE PIGEON HAND (COLUMBA-LIVIA) - A MUSCLE STIMULATION STUDY

The morphology and function of all muscles controlling the pigeon hand were analyzed. Muscle action was determined in situ by inducing contr action via silver wire electrodes in anesthetized birds. FMG electrode s were implanted in the test muscle and an adjacent muscle to monitor contraction and volume conduction respectively. Results indicate that pigeons have fine control of hand and digit movements. However, the di rections of movement are restricted. Movements have been eliminated or severely limited in those directions that experience strong stress du ring flight. Such restrictions may reduce the amount of muscular activ ity required for stabilization of the hand and its components. Mobilit y is retained in directions not subject to large stresses and where mo vement is essential for the kinematics of flight to be executed proper ly. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.