Academics from PLoS Genetics a peer-reviewed scientific journal now have an explanation, Gizmodo reported.
The unusual gait can be explained by a genetic mutation, the study found.
This species has a warped RORB gene, BBC Newsround said. This was the only mutation that stood out as really striking, Miguel Carneiro, an academic at the University of Porto, told the media outlet.
A mutation in the RORB gene can result in the loss of spinal cord interneurons. When you move, these neurons fire all the time, they coordinate muscle contractions and know if the other limbs are in balance, Leif Andersson, a co-author of the study, told Gizmodo. This coordination of muscle contraction is not correct in these rabbits.
Cientistas desvendam por que estes coelhos andam só com patas dianteiras globo.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from globo.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
The Sauteur d'Alfort, also known as the Alfort jumping rabbit, have a unique way of moving around, lifting their hind legs and using only their front ones.