The size of the largest land animal

J Theor Biol. 1986 Feb 21;118(4):491-9. doi: 10.1016/s0022-5193(86)80167-9.

Abstract

The upper mass limit to terrestrial animals is studied using physical arguments and allometric laws for bone and muscle strength and animal locomotion. The limit is suggested to lie between 10(5) and 10(6) kg. A possibility for a still higher mass, in case of new adaptations, is not excluded.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Biometry
  • Body Constitution*
  • Body Weight
  • Bone and Bones / anatomy & histology
  • Bone and Bones / physiology
  • Locomotion
  • Mammals
  • Muscles / physiology
  • Whales