What is a common disadvantage of elongated leg bones in running mammals?

Elongated leg bones in running mammals are advantageous for their role in enhancing speed and efficiency during movement. However, this adaptation does come with certain trade-offs, one of which is a higher susceptibility to breakage.

Longer bones tend to be thinner than their shorter counterparts, which can make them less robust. The increased length and slenderness can mean that when these bones experience stress, especially during high-impact activities like running, they may not withstand the forces as effectively. Factors such as fatigue, overuse, or sudden impacts can lead to fractures, making these elongated bones more vulnerable to injury over time.

In contrast, while longer leg bones can improve speed, increase flexibility, and offer better muscle attachment, these features do not inherently increase the structural integrity of the bones. Understanding this disadvantage is important for assessing how evolutionary adaptations balance benefits and risks in the biomechanics of running mammals.