Computer models to cut down on animal experimentsAdvanced computer-based models provide an alternati

Computer models to cut down on animal experiments

Advanced computer-based models provide an alternative way to study the complex skulls of lizards and snakes that are difficult to research in living animals.

This model was created by scientists at the University of Aberdeen, UCL, University of Hull and the University of Adelaide. It shows an Argentine black and white tegu lizard biting on some food, and predicts the bite forces of the living animal very accurately.

It was produced based on high-resolution CT scans, detailed dissections and motion capture of living animals.

Not only could the models help reduce the need to experiment using live animals, but the data from them helps us understand how these animals use their skull and jaws in feeding.

Top image: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen

Model credit: Dr Flora Gröning