concertina locomotion
Quick Summary
Concertina locomotion is a method of movement used by snakes when there isn't enough friction for serpentine locomotion. This technique involves the snake anchoring its tail and posterior body, then extending its head and front body forward. Once the front is anchored, the rear section is pulled up into accordion-like folds. This process repeats, allowing the snake to progress. This method is largely unique to snakes and is an adaptation for moving in environments with limited resistance.12
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
amphibianCaecilians…soil by a process called concertina locomotion, in which the body alternately folds and extends itself along its entire length, often occurring within the envelope of skin as well as by flexures of the entire body.
Read More…soil by a process called concertina locomotion, in which the body alternately folds and extends itself along its entire length, often occurring within the envelope of skin as well as by flexures of the entire body.
Read More
snakeLocomotion…of these is known as “concertina” locomotion, because the snake in action resembles the opening and closing of an accordion or a concertina. First the tail and the posteriormost part of the body are securely anchored, and then the head and the rest of the body are extended as far…
Read More…of these is known as “concertina” locomotion, because the snake in action resembles the opening and closing of an accordion or a concertina. First the tail and the posteriormost part of the body are securely anchored, and then the head and the rest of the body are extended as far…
Read More