Relationship Between Form and Function

Our research examines the relationship between form and function in large mammal predators (from whales to wolves). These adaptations are critical to their success.

Current Research Projects

  • Investigating the structure and function of the thoracic rete mirabile (TRM) in cetaceans

  • Comparing hindflipper/hindpaw anatomy & biomechanics and their role in underwater locomotion in marine carnivores (pinnipeds, polar bears, sea otters)

  • Examining female-biased sexual dimorphism in leopard seals

  • Examining morphological & genetic adaptations in North American wolves

Methods

  • 3D scanning

  • Geometric morphometrics

  • Detailed necropsies & anatomical studies

  • Biomechanical studies with captive & wild animals

Research Findings

  • Coyotes can make ‘puppy dog eyes’ like domestic dogs (Cunningham et al. 2024)

  • Female leopard seals are 1.5x larger than males (Kienle et al. 2022)

  • Pinnipeds have facial muscles adapted for specific feeding strategies, like biting and suction feeding (Kienle et al. 2021)

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