In a four-legged animal, the weight of the body would be distributed between the pelvic and pectoral girdles. In humans, the pelvis has to support the weight of the whole trunk.
ilium
chicken
The pelvic girdle is generally considered to be massive due to its sturdy structure and its role in supporting the weight of the upper body. Its design helps to provide stability and protection for the internal organs within the pelvic cavity.
because animals have more bones and they produce more
Humans have to carry all of their weight upright and on just two legs. Animals that have four legs to support their weight and their pelvic bones are less massive. We "pay" for this as we are more prone to fractures and other problems of the upper leg bones. See link for more information:
The reason the pelvic bones, or the hip bones, of a four legged animal are less massive than those of a human is because in humans all of their weight is concentrated onto that one area of the body, and only onto two legs. But in four legged animals there are four legs to distribute the weight onto, thus the hip bone does not need to be as strong.
vestigial structures.
True. The wider and more massive pelvic girdle in women allows for easier passage of a baby during childbirth. The distance between the iliac crests is greater in women to accommodate the increased width needed for the birth canal.
The pelvic bone of a cow provides structural support and stability for the animal's body, serving as the attachment point for the hind limbs. It protects vital organs in the pelvic cavity, including the reproductive and urinary systems. Additionally, the pelvic bone plays a crucial role in the birthing process by facilitating the passage of the calf during delivery. Overall, it is essential for locomotion and overall health of the cow.
Pelvic girdle size can influence movement by affecting the range of motion in the hips, pelvis, and lower spine. A wider pelvic girdle may provide more stability and support during movements like walking and running, while a narrower pelvic girdle could potentially limit range of motion. The structure of the pelvic girdle can also impact the alignment of the spine and overall posture, which in turn can affect movement patterns.
The pelvic girdle is not considered massive in terms of size or weight compared to other skeletal structures, but it is robust and sturdy. It consists of the ilium, ischium, and pubis, which form a strong bony ring that supports the weight of the upper body and allows for bipedal locomotion. Its strength is essential for bearing stresses during activities such as walking, running, and lifting. Overall, while it is designed for durability rather than mass, its structural integrity is vital for mobility and stability.
The heart is not located in the pelvic cavity. It is located in the thoracic cavity.