Heterochronic maturation of anatomical plugs for protecting the airway in rorqual whales (Balaenopteridae)
Recently, a unique mechanism for protecting the airway during lunge feeding was discovered in rorqual whales (Balaenopteridae). This mechanism is based on an oral plug structure in the soft palate with similarities in musculo-fatty composition to the nasal plugs protecting the respiratory tract of r...
Main Authors: | , , , , , , , |
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Format: | Article |
Language: | English |
Published: |
The Royal Society
2022-12-01
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Series: | Royal Society Open Science |
Subjects: | |
Online Access: | https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.220459 |