Resilin springs simplify the control of crustacean limb movements

Animals can simplify the brain control of their limb movements by moving a joint with just one muscle that operates against a spring made of the almost perfect elastic substance called resilin. This principle is analysed and illustrated by striking photographs and high-speed video footage, published in the open access journal BMC Biology, of the movements of the mouthparts of crabs and crayfish.

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<p><a href="http://www.physorg.com/news162796707.html">Resilin springs simplify the control of crustacean limb movements</a></p> <p>Animals can simplify the brain control of their limb movements by moving a joint with just one muscle that operates against a spring made of the almost perfect elastic substance called resilin. This principle is analysed and illustrated by striking photographs and high-speed video footage, published in the open access journal <i>BMC Biology</i>, of the movements of the mouthparts of crabs and crayfish.</p>