Pauline Costes
Papers
1
Total Citations
2
H-Index
1
About
Pauline Costes is a leading biomechanics researcher whose work centers on the functional morphology and motor control of the elephant trunk—a remarkable muscular hydrostat. Her major contributions lie in quantifying the mechanical capabilities of this unique appendage, particularly its distal grasping force and the role of the two prehensile “fingers” at the trunk tip. In her most-cited study, “Maximum trunk tip force assessment related to trunk position and prehensile ’fingers’ implication in African savannah elephants” (2024, 2 citations), Costes provides the first empirical data on how trunk posture and finger-like processes influence force exertion during precision grasping versus wrapping. This work bridges a critical gap between anecdotal observations of elephant dexterity and rigorous biomechanical analysis, offering insights into the evolutionary trade-offs between strength and fine motor control. Her findings have implications for soft robotics and bio-inspired design, as well as for conservation efforts that depend on understanding elephant behavior. Costes’ research is distinguished by its innovative use of in-field force measurement and its focus on a species whose trunk capabilities remain largely unexplored.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1