Metatarsal
Long bone, part of the appendicular skeleton
Also known as: Foot bones
Classification
Long bone, part of the appendicular skeleton
Dimensions
Slender and elongated shafts, varying in length and thickness depending on their specific position in the foot, featuring widened articular ends.
Key Features
Straight or slightly curved tubular shafts with a squarish block-like upper end for joint connection and a rounded, pulley-like lower end where toes attach.
Similar Bones
Can be easily confused with metacarpals from the hand. Metatarsals are generally longer, narrower, and less twisted than their hand counterparts, with flatter shaft surfaces adapted for weight-bearing rather than grasping.
Across Species
In human feet, these form the arch and support walking and running. In running animals like horses, the central metatarsal is massively enlarged into the primary lower leg cannon bone while side digits vanish. In birds, these fuse into a single tarsometatarsus to add an extra spring segment to the leg.
Evolutionary History
Evolving from the multi-boned, sprawling foot structures of early tetrapods, these bones adapted alongside terrestrial locomotion to become streamlined levers that efficiently transfer weight and energy during strides.
Photography Tips
Place the bones on a neutral, non-reflective background with a coin or ruler next to them for scale. Use bright, even overhead lighting to eliminate harsh shadows and capture the fine surface textures of both ends.