History

In the Department of Biology (National University of Mar del Plata), began about 18 years ago a research line focused on bone and muscle anatomy and function. The investigations pointed principally to the South American rodent genus Ctenomys (Caviomorpha; Ctenomyidae), a subterranean mammal known as tuco tucos, occult, tunduques and other common names. Over time, this line of inquiry included other species of caviomorph rodents with different way of life and ecology. Our studies focused also on the behavior of these animals, both under field and laboratory conditions, combined with the estimation of biomechanical parameters of bones. We are interested in measuring the forces implicated in mastication and locomotion. The evolutionary context is a central aspect of our research. Currently, we collaborate with the Histology research group on the subject of histology, histochemistry and function of masticatory and limb muscles. In occasions, contributions have been made on particular aspects of the structure of raptors birds and rays (Biondi 2010; Lucífora and Vassallo, 2002). At present, this research line is carried out by the group Functional Morphology and Behavior.