Question

Epipubic bones, found in marsupials and monotremes: (check all that apply)

a.)

are part of the pectoral girdle

b.) are special vertebral processes found in the tail and are important for balance during locomotion

c.) support abdominal pouch

d.) could serve as attachment sites for abdominal wall musculature to support large hindquarters

e.) function to stabilize the joint between the pelvic girdle and the femur

f. ) support the mammary gland of the abdominal pouch

Answer 1

• Epipubic bones,
• function to stabilize the joint between the pelvic girdle and the femur
• could serve as attachment sites for abdominal wall musculature to support large hindquarters

The epipubic bones help in supporting the locomotion in the marsupials and majorly known to be extending forward from the abdominal wall in marsupials as well as monotremes. They are also known for the formation of the abdominal pouch which are used for transporting the young ones but it is still not confirmed. This is because it is found that this bone is developed in both male and female. They are found to be longer and broader in females. They are similar to bones in reptile which helps in attaching to the abdominal muscles that are responsible for providing large hindquarters.