Biological Systems in Vertebrates ( Series )
Series editors: Hiran M. Dutta and Douglas W. Kline: Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Ohio, USA
Muscular Systems in Vertebrates
Seth Kisia: Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Nairobi, Kenya Daniel W. Onyango: B.V.M. University of Nairobi, Kenya
ISBN 978-1-57808-306-0; 2005; 126 pages; $ 61.60      Buy Now

Covers salient topics relevant to the understanding of vertebrate musculature,
including, evolution and development of various muscles, the various types present and their morphological organization and physiology. This book will serve as a useful reference material for students of zoology, agriculture, ecology and other related fields, besides a reference to veterinary and medical students as well as scientists who wish to know the different muscles of vertebrates and their origin.

Contents :
. General Introduction to Vertebrate Muscular System
The Muscular System; Classes of Vertebrates; Tetrapod Muscular System; Birds; Mammals
. Muscle Types
Introduction; Fiber Types; Accessory Structures Associated with Muscle
. Muscle Development
Origin of Muscle Cells; Origin of Vertebrate Musculature
. Muscle Contraction
Sarcomeric Structure; Contractile Proteins; Mechanism of Muscle Contraction;
Regulation of Muscle Contraction; Muscle Relaxation; Temperature and the Sliding
Filament Mechanism; Types of Muscle Contraction; Muscle Fatigue; Rigor Mortis;
Shortening and Power Output of Muscles
. Body Support in Vertebrates
Swimming; Terrestrial Vertebrates; Bow and Bowstring Analogy; Adaptations;
Quadruped Limbs
. Evolution of the Vertebrate Muscular System
Extraocular Muscles; Visceral Arches; Branchiomeric Muscles; Mandibular Muscles;
Hyoid Muscles; Muscles of Third and Successive Pharyngeal Arches; Hypobranchial
Muscles; Epibranchial Muscles; Axial Musculature; Appendicular Muscles; Electric
Organs; Muscle Spindles