JOURNAL ARTICLE

Enigmatic muscle may help explain penguins' signature waddle: Find also reveals how the birds keep their bodies streamlined when underwater.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2026. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Brown, Taylor Mitchell 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on a recent anatomical study that identifies a unique muscle in penguins, named the m. adductor tibialis, which connects their knees and contributes to their distinctive waddling gait. This muscle, previously misunderstood and considered part of another muscle, helps keep the penguins’ legs close to their bodies, aiding both their balance on land and streamlined movement underwater. The research, based on dissections of macaroni penguins (Eudyptes chrysolophus) donated by SeaWorld, also highlights other muscular adaptations that enable penguins to "fly" underwater with their flippers. This detailed anatomical insight provides a foundation for further understanding penguin evolution and locomotion. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2026/04, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Zoology
  • Publication Date:2026
  • Accession Number:193402101
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