The Anatomy of a Spork

Recently, I took a course in comparative vertebrate anatomy, in which I learned several thousand names that define the patterns that cells and their secretions follow in the formation of the group of metazoans known as chordates. Immediately after my final exam in that class, I decided to go uptown to the local Taco Bell, where, following a satisfying meal, I found myself studying the structure of the spork I had just used. I realized that there were many discrete structures visible on a spork that lend themselves to anatomical definitions. Though I am not an anatomical expert, I feel that, among spork enthusiasts, I may be the best qualified to submit a preliminary analysis detailing the anatomy of the spork.

I have, at present, only investigated one species of spork. In order to be specific, I decided to name this species of spork. It is my hope that other sporks will be named and defined, either by myself or others. I would also encourage comments on the terminology I use. I have attempted to draw upon the anatomy of vertebrates and arthropods faithfully in my descriptions and I hope that my decisions are well received..

Tacobellus athenius

This spork, native to the two-story Taco Bell found in Athens, Ohio, is the first subject of study.

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Dorsal View

Cranial Fossa - Large depression which spans the cranium. In native habitats, this area is used to hold food for transportation
Rostral Processes - These projections extend from the cranium and act functionally as teeth, used to impale foods.
Canines - Sharp, cranial projections also known as tines which are used to impale foods.
Cranial Ridge - Ridge that makes up the lateral margins of the cranium
Neck - The tapering, most anterior portion of the trunk.
Dorsal Carina - Ridge that extends dorsally along the entire surface of the trunk.
Platysmal surfaces - Flat surfaces on either side of the dorsal carina.
Cercus - The posterior tip of the trunk.

Ventral View

Hypocercal Ridge - Ridge that begins at the lateral edge of the cranium and extends down the trunk to the cercus.
Cranial Clefts - Short structural supports that adds stability to the neck, allowing greater pressure to be placed on the cranium.
Cranial Groove - Continuation of the cercal groove extending up the neck to the cranium.
Cranial Condyle - Knob projecting from the base of the cranium.
Transcervical Clefts - Cross-hatching structural supports that prevent torsion of the neck, adding essential stability to T. athenius.
Thoracic Condyle - Knob projecting from the most anterior portion of the trunk.
Cercal Groove - The underside of the dorsal carina, extends the entire length of the trunk.
Cercal Condyle - Knob projecting from the most posterior portion of the cercus.

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Inferior and Superior Plates

Superior Plate - Large plate across the trunk, typically has a manufacturing insignia. A rough image can be seen above.
Inferior Plate - Smaller plate across the trunk, typically has a serial number (this specimen is H90).
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