Activity physiology and evolution of the vertebrate Skeleton

Abstract

SYNOPSIS. Vertebrates frequently rely on intramuscular glycolysis as the major source of ATP utilized during bouts of intense exercise. This is often followed by extended periods of marked systemic pH fluctuation. Such a pattern of activity physiology is unique among the Metazoa and probably dates back to the very earliest vertebrates.The origin of bone may have been necessitated by requirement for a skeletal matrix with chemical stability over the broad range of tissue pH associated with vertebrate exercise physiology. © 1989 by the American Society of Zoologists.