Re: Ungulate-Type Nuchal Ligaments in Hadrosaurs?

[TomHopp@aol.com]

In a message dated 1/24/00 7:53:15 AM, Jonathan R. Wagner wrote:

<< assuming a feeding posture with the elbows bent, feeding nearly at ground 
level, any ungulate-like nuchal ligaments would have to stretch to nearly 
twice their length in order to allow such a range of movement.
       Another possibility is that hadrosaurs did not hold their heads so 
upright. This seems less plausable on the grounds that it is best to keep the 
head elevated in "travel mode" or for defense. However, we cannot simply 
assume that this was necessary...>>

Good non-assumption. Without any data to back it up, it seems to me that 
ungulates and hadrosaurs differ most critically in posture. Lacking the 
hadrosaur's ability to stand on two legs, ungulates have more need to hold 
their heads as high as possible when looking for predators. Hence a need for 
the ligaments in ungulates, but not in hadrosaurs which could get their heads 
way up without craning their necks at all, by going bipedal.
    Maybe you should consider the neck of the kangaroo, which has a similar 
grazing/rearing postural situation.
- Tom Hopp