quadrupedal

Quadrupedal refers to locomotion performed on four limbs. The term derives from Latin quadri, meaning four, and pes, pedis, meaning foot. Quadrupedalism is the dominant mode of terrestrial locomotion among tetrapods, especially many mammals such as dogs, cats, horses, cattle, and deer, though some lineages show variations in posture and gait.

In quadrupeds, movement is coordinated through a sequence of gaits. Common gaits include the walk (four-beat cadence), the trot (diagonal two-beat), the canter (a three-beat gait with a lead leg), and the gallop (a fast, two-beat pattern with suspension). The choice of gait is influenced by limb proportions, spine flexibility, and foot anatomy, and it affects speed, stability, and energy efficiency on different terrains.

Distribution and variation: Quadrupedalism is widespread among living tetrapods, especially mammals, and has also appeared in extinct groups. While many species maintain a fairly stable, weight-bearing four-limb posture, some may alter limb use during running or adopt more erect postures in certain contexts. The high variability of form and function reflects adaptations to ecology, gait, and habitat.

In technology and science, quadrupedal locomotion informs the design of robots and prosthetics. Quadruped robots employ four legs to achieve stability on uneven terrain, rapid recovery from disturbances, and versatile traversal. These platforms are used in research, search-and-rescue, and industrial tasks.

In humans, quadrupedal movement occurs in infancy and in specific medical or functional contexts; adults may also assume a quadrupedal gait temporarily in particular activities or disorders.