pelvic spur

Term ID

UBERON:0005161

Synonyms

• anal spur
• cloacal spur

Definition

Pelvic spurs are the externally visible portion of the vestigial remnants of legs found on each side of the vent in primitive snakes, such as boas and pythons. The remnants of a pelvis and femur, which have no connection with the spine, simply 'float' in the muscle mass. The femur protrudes from the snake's body and is covered by a corneal spur, which resembles a claw. Males' spurs are generally longer and more pointed than females', and are used for clasping and tickling during courtship and mating, as well as combat with other males in some species http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelvic_spur

References

• Pelvic:spur

Ontology

Uberon Ontology