Quote Originally Posted by Skiploder View Post
Question Alex:

A saccule is intricately linked to balance and equilibrium - correct?

Therefore if someone has proved that the spider genetics result in a deformation to the inner ear, it should be easy to find - correct?

Or does it sound like someone's attempt to sound scholarly to explain an unknown genetic snafu? To be clear, this idea of an inner ear abnormality has been tossed around for a few years, but like many other things, it has gained credibility just by being repeated often. I know of no studies done.......and I would hazard to say none exist.

FWIW: I have the Hartline pdf somewhere on my hard drive. It says pretty much the same thing that your link does.
If it is an inner ear issue yes it serves a CT or even X-ray of a spider should tell if there is deformities. It should be easy. Yes I believe the saccule is linked to balance bit of a leap of faith on my part I have not read any studies saying so but it is with most other animals so logic says yes it is.

Often people do try to sound scholarly and misuse terms, confuse definitions, or just plain ignore physics. I was hopeful that there is an article with at least some research into the cause of snake wobble. I am assuming, you, Skip, have also no of no such research? Pity that, I would like to know for certain. My thought is a neurological issue of some sort and not a balance issue. It looks like a spasticity and poor muscle control to me such as can some times be seen in stroke sufferers. Again just a guess on my part no evidence just observations.