Abstract
The turtle shell offers a fascinating case study of vertebrate evolution, based on the modification of a common body plan. The carapace is formed from ribs, which encapsulate the scapula; this stands in contrast to the typical amniote body plan and serves as a key to understanding turtle evolution. Comparative analyses of musculoskeletal development between the Chinese soft-shelled turtle and other amniotes revealed that initial turtle development conforms to the amniote pattern; however, during embryogenesis, lateral rib growth results in a shift of elements. In addition, some limb muscles establish new turtle-specific attachments associated with carapace formation. We propose that the evolutionary origin of the turtle body plan results from heterotopy based on folding and novel connectivities.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 193-196 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| Journal | Science |
| Volume | 325 |
| Issue number | 5937 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2009 |
| Externally published | Yes |
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Nagashima, H., Sugahara, F., Takechi, M., Ericsson, R., Kawashima-Ohya, Y., Narita, Y., & Kuratani, S. (2009). Evolution of the turtle body plan by the folding and creation of new muscle connections. Science, 325(5937), 193-196. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1173826