Nasal cavity anatomy
The mammalian nose is incredible. The nasal cavity is filled with scrolls of bone that are covered in epithelium (respiratory or olfactory function). These thin scrolls of bone are called turbinals, sometimes called turbinates or conchae. My research focuses on these bony elements and uses their complexity to understanding animal ecology in both evolutionary and functional aspects. Figure from Craven et al., 2009 |
Turbinals in evolution
We've long understood that the morphology/shape of turbinals vary by group of organisms. The anatomy of a human nose (far left) and that of a seal (far right) differ dramatically. If we are able to map out these morphological differences across the evolutionary tree of mammals, we can use this information to test phylogenetic relationships between organisms. Figure from Hillenius,1992 |
X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT) to study turbinals
From there, I am able to visualize these structures in 3D, allowing for a fresh perspective on this anatomical system. I use these data to test hypotheses relating to form and function relationships. Respiratory adaptations including those related to environmental extremes (e.g. arid, high elevation, and arctic environments). I also explore selection for olfactory specialization (e.g. nocturnality, frugivory, and insectivory). |
Featured Publications
Internal nasal morphology of the Eocene primate Rooneyia viejaensis and extant Euarchonta: Using µCT scan data to understand and infer patterns of nasal fossa evolution in primates
Lundeen and Kirk, 2019 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhevol.2019.04.009 |
Unique turbinal morphology reveals Homunculus patagonicus functionally converged on modern platyrrhine olfactory sensitivity
Lundeen and Kay, 2022 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhevol.2022.103184 |
New observations on the nasal fossa and interorbital region of Shoshonius cooperi based on microcomputerized tomography
Kirk and Lundeen, 2020
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhevol.2020.102748
Kirk and Lundeen, 2020
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhevol.2020.102748