Compared to almost al mammals, the giraffe has the same number of cervical vertebrae (seven) and the longest neck. The first thoracic vertebra (T1) has adapted in a particular way and this allowed the animal to show an incredible freedom of movement. 

It is therefore assumed that the T1 operates as the hypothetical eighth cervical vertebra (C8). We have decided to focus on the morphology of T1 and the seventh cervical vertebra (C7) in Okapia Johstoni and Giraffa Camelopardalis. Particularly, we wanted to experiment how the different morphology can affect the movement of the two animals. 

With the help of the provided 3D surface models, we wanted to show the different morphology of T1 and C7 through their detailed comparison. Furthermore, the differences were highlighted thanks to an animation, which precisely showed the effects of the different morphologies to the mobility of the animals‘necks.

Published on Biologie News

Cooperation project with Humboldt University of Berlin

Cooperation with Sonia Monti

Program: Maya, Cinema 4D, After Effects, 2019