Ultra-Slow Rhythmic Movement

Ultra-Slow Rhythmic Movement in the Elongating Tail of Xenopus Tadpoles

Since Darwin's time, ultra-slow oscillatory movements have been recognized as a characteristic feature of axis elongation in plant organs such as shoots and tendrils, yet have not been reported in elongating animal body axes. Here, using long-term imaging of multiple anesthetized Xenopus laevis embryos with a modified document scanner, we identify a previously unrecognized ultra-slow rhythmic movement in the developing tadpole tail. This movement emerged during tailbud development, persisted...