Functional Morphology

AW ('Fuzz') Crompton and his colleagues have undertaken functional morphology studies to understand the relationship between anatomical structures and their functions in extant mammals; and the original functions behind the evolution of such structures in extinct vertebrates.  Understanding how the pharyngeal musculature works in pigs and opossums, for example, has cast light on the origin of bones as they supported such muscles in early mammals.  

See: Motor Control and Jaw Movements in Placental and Marsupial Grazers and Browsers

Goat and Koala chewing movie