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Young MW, Wilken AT, Manafzadeh AR, Schurr AF, Bastian A, Dickinson E, Granatosky MC. The dual function of prokinesis in the feeding and locomotor systems of parrots. J Exp Biol 2023; 226:jeb246659. [PMID: 37942661 PMCID: PMC10730085 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.246659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Prokinesis, a mode of avian cranial kinesis involving motion between the neurocranium and upper beak, has long been investigated in biomechanical analyses of avian feeding and drinking. However, the modern avian beak is also used for non-feeding functions. Here, we investigate the dual function of prokinesis in the feeding and locomotor systems of the rosy-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis). Lovebirds and other parrots utilize their beak both during feeding and as a third limb during vertical climbing. Thus, we experimentally measured both force-generating potential and movement of the rosy-faced lovebird mandible and maxilla (via prokinetic flexion of the craniofacial hinge) during tripedal climbing and mandibular/maxillary adduction. We found that whereas the maxilla is primarily responsible for generating force during locomotion, the mandible is primarily responsible for generating force during forceful jaw adduction, hinting at a remarkable capacity to alter prokinetic function with differing neuromuscular control. The ability of the prokinetic apparatus to perform functions with competing optimality criteria via modulation of motor control illustrates the functional plasticity of the avian cranial kinesis and sheds new light on the adaptive significance of cranial mobility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody W. Young
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
| | - Alec T. Wilken
- Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Armita R. Manafzadeh
- Yale Institute for Biospheric Studies, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Alissa F. Schurr
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
| | - Aaron Bastian
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
| | - Edwin Dickinson
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
| | - Michael C. Granatosky
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
- Center for Biomedical Innovation, New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, Old Westbury, NY 11568, USA
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2
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Bels V, Le Floch G, Kirchhoff F, Gastebois G, Davenport J, Baguette M. Food transport in Reptilia: a comparative viewpoint. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20220542. [PMID: 37839442 PMCID: PMC10577028 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Reptilia exploit a large diversity of food resources from plant materials to living mobile prey. They are among the first tetrapods that needed to drink to maintain their water homeostasis. Here were compare the feeding and drinking mechanisms in Reptilia through an empirical approach based on the available data to open perspectives in our understanding of the evolution of the various mechanisms determined in these Tetrapoda for exploiting solid and liquid food resources. This article is part of the theme issue 'Food processing and nutritional assimilation in animals'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Bels
- Institut Systématique, Evolution, et Biodiversité (ISYEB), UMR 7205 Museum d'Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Glenn Le Floch
- Institut Systématique, Evolution, et Biodiversité (ISYEB), UMR 7205 Museum d'Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Florence Kirchhoff
- Institut Systématique, Evolution, et Biodiversité (ISYEB), UMR 7205 Museum d'Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 75005 Paris, France
| | | | - John Davenport
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Distillery Fields, North Mall, University College Cork, Ireland T23 N73K
| | - Michel Baguette
- Institut Systématique, Evolution, et Biodiversité (ISYEB), UMR 7205 Museum d'Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), CNRS, Sorbonne Université, EPHE, Université des Antilles, 75005 Paris, France
- Station d'Ecologie Théorique et Expérimentale, CNRS UAR 2029, Route du CNRS, F-09200 Moulis, France
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3
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Wang L, Sun L, Wan QH, Fang SG. Comparative Genomics Provides Insights into Adaptive Evolution in Tactile-Foraging Birds. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040678. [PMID: 35456484 PMCID: PMC9028243 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Tactile-foraging birds have evolved an enlarged principal sensory nucleus (PrV) but smaller brain regions related to the visual system, which reflects the difference in sensory dependence. The “trade-off” may exist between different senses in tactile foragers, as well as between corresponding sensory-processing areas in the brain. We explored the mechanism underlying the adaptive evolution of sensory systems in three tactile foragers (kiwi, mallard, and crested ibis). The results showed that olfaction-related genes in kiwi and mallard and hearing-related genes in crested ibis were expanded, indicating they may also have sensitive olfaction or hearing, respectively. However, some genes required for visual development were positively selected or had convergent amino acid substitutions in all three tactile branches, and it seems to show the possibility of visual degradation. In addition, we may provide a new visual-degradation candidate gene PDLIM1 who suffered dense convergent amino acid substitutions within the ZM domain. At last, two genes responsible for regulating the proliferation and differentiation of neuronal progenitor cells may play roles in determining the relative sizes of sensory areas in brain. This exploration offers insight into the relationship between specialized tactile-forging behavior and the evolution of sensory abilities and brain structures.
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4
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Van Wassenbergh S, Andries T, Pauly E, Abourachid A. Cranial kinesis facilitates quick retraction of stuck woodpecker beaks. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:274243. [PMID: 35118496 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.243787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Much like nails that are hammered into wood, the beaks of woodpeckers regularly get stuck upon impact. A kinematic video analysis of pecking by black woodpeckers shows how they manage to quickly withdraw their beaks, revealing a two-phase pattern: first a few degrees of nose-down rotation about the nasofrontal hinge causes the tip of the upper beak to be retruded while its proximal end is lifted. Next, the head is lifted, causing nose-up rotation about the nasofrontal hinge while the lower beak starts retruding and initiates the final freeing. We hypothesise that these consecutive actions, taking place in about 0.05 s, facilitate beak retraction by exploiting the presumably low frictional resistance between the upper and lower beak keratin surfaces, allowing them to slide past each other. It also demonstrates the counter-intuitive value of maintaining cranial kinesis in a species adapted to deliver forceful impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Van Wassenbergh
- Laboratory of Functional Morphology, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerpen, Belgium.,UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N., Département Adaptations du Vivant, 57 rue Cuvier, Case Postale 55, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - T Andries
- Laboratory of Functional Morphology, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - E Pauly
- Laboratory of Functional Morphology, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - A Abourachid
- UMR 7179 C.N.R.S/M.N.H.N., Département Adaptations du Vivant, 57 rue Cuvier, Case Postale 55, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
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5
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Bassuoni NF, Abumandour MMA, Morsy K, Hanafy BG. Ultrastructural adaptation of the oropharyngeal cavity of the Eurasian common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus chloropus): Specific adaptive dietary implications. Microsc Res Tech 2022; 85:1915-1925. [PMID: 35040229 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The present investigation represents the first morphological description of the oropharyngeal cavity of Eurasian common moorhen. Nine oropharyngeal cavities were examined grossly and by stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) observations. The tongue had a rounded apex with multiple acicular processes on its rostral and lateral borders. The dorsal lingual surface of the apex and body had a median sulcus. The papillary crest carried four caudally directed triangular conical papillae on its median part and four triangular conical papillae on each lateral part. The filiform papillary system; small papillae on apex and long papillae on the rostral part of the body while broad papillae on the caudal part of the body. The lingual root had a special appearance by presence of three areas: mucosal fossa, two lateral ridges, and rhomboidal elevated central part. The caudal border of the mound carried heart-shaped pharyngeal papillae that possessed three papillary rows. The palate had a median palatine ridge rostrally that surrounded by two lateral palatine ridges. The choanae had two equal parts: rostral tapering and wide caudal. The rostral tapering choanal part was surrounded by two longitudinal rows of caudally directed conical papillae, one on each side. There was a single transverse row of conical papillae on each side of the caudal part of the rostral tapering choanal part. The caudal wide choanal part did not encircle by any papillae. Our conclusion exhibited unique structural and functional specifications of the oropharyngeal cavity with the tongue that evident with nutritional behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naglaa F Bassuoni
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M A Abumandour
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Kareem Morsy
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Basma G Hanafy
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
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6
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Bestwick J, Jones AS, Nesbitt SJ, Lautenschlager S, Rayfield EJ, Cuff AR, Button DJ, Barrett PM, Porro LB, Butler RJ. Cranial functional morphology of the pseudosuchian Effigia and implications for its ecological role in the Triassic. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2021; 305:2435-2462. [PMID: 34841701 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Pseudosuchians, archosaurian reptiles more closely related to crocodylians than to birds, exhibited high morphological diversity during the Triassic with numerous examples of morphological convergence described between Triassic pseudosuchians and post-Triassic dinosaurs. One example is the shuvosaurid Effigia okeeffeae which exhibits an "ostrich-like" bauplan comprising a gracile skeleton with edentulous jaws and large orbits, similar to ornithomimid dinosaurs and extant palaeognaths. This bauplan is regarded as an adaptation for herbivory, but this hypothesis assumes morphological convergence confers functional convergence, and has received little explicit testing. Here, we restore the skull morphology of Effigia, perform myological reconstructions, and apply finite element analysis to quantitatively investigate skull function. We also perform finite element analysis on the crania of the ornithomimid dinosaur Ornithomimus edmontonicus, the extant palaeognath Struthio camelus and the extant pseudosuchian Alligator mississippiensis to assess the degree of functional convergence with a taxon that exhibit "ostrich-like" bauplans and its closest extant relatives. We find that Effigia possesses a mosaic of mechanically strong and weak features, including a weak mandible that likely restricted feeding to the anterior portion of the jaws. We find limited functional convergence with Ornithomimus and Struthio and limited evidence of phylogenetic constraints with extant pseudosuchians. We infer that Effigia was a specialist herbivore that likely fed on softer plant material, a niche unique among the study taxa and potentially among contemporaneous Triassic herbivores. This study increases the known functional diversity of pseudosuchians and highlights that superficial morphological similarity between unrelated taxa does not always imply functional and ecological convergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Bestwick
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrew S Jones
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Stephan Lautenschlager
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Andrew R Cuff
- Centre for Anatomical and Human Sciences, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - David J Button
- Department of Earth Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Paul M Barrett
- Department of Earth Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Laura B Porro
- Centre for Integrative Anatomy, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Richard J Butler
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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7
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Abumandour M, Shukry M, Lashen S, Kassab M, Kandyle R, Gewaily M, El-Mansi A, El Askary A, Hamoda H, Farrag F. Posthatching ultrastructural development of the oropharyngeal cavity roof in five age-stages of Coturnix coturnix (Linnaeus, 1758). Microsc Res Tech 2021; 85:71-91. [PMID: 34313374 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.23885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent literature has demonstrated only adult avian palate, albeit there has been only limited focus on the postnatal development of the avian oropharyngeal cavity roof. Hence, the current investigation was designed to obtain the full ultrastructure postnatal description of the oropharyngeal roof during the five developmental age-stages of Coturnix coturnix by employing assessments using gross morphometric analysis and stero and scanning electron microscopy. The elongated triangular oropharyngeal roof has a spoonful rounded beak tip. The palate region is subdivided into the rostral ridged area and the choanal area. The palate has eight longitudinal palatine ridges (seven nonpapillated and one papillated median) and four transverse papillary rows (one slightly oblique row and three transverse papillary crests). The median palatine ridge continuous caudally and is then divided into three ridges: one median and two paramedian ridges (forming the lateral boundaries of the choanal field). The choanal field had three regions (rostral, middle, and caudal). The finger-like projection papillary region has five papillae. The choanal cleft has two unequal parts (rostral and caudal). The rostral nonpapillated short choanal part is subdivided by transverse papillary row into rostral narrow straight and caudal diamond portions. The caudal wide papillated choanal part is further divided by a second transverse crest into rostral long (encircled by interdigitated papillae) and caudal short wider part (not encircled by interdigitated papillae). The infundibular cleft is not bordered by any papillae, while the pharyngeal region has numerous papillae and openings of the salivary glands. Moreover, the morphometric analysis revealed a higher value with increasing age for all dimensions. Our findings indicated a higher degree of functional adaptation between the five developmental age stages of quail. Our observations suggest that adaptations such as these may increase the efficiency of food prehension with increasing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abumandour
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mustafa Shukry
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Samah Lashen
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Kassab
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Ramadan Kandyle
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Gewaily
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt
| | - Ahmed El-Mansi
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ahmad El Askary
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hazem Hamoda
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt
| | - Foad Farrag
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt
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8
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Abumandour MMA, El-Bakary NER, Elbealy ER, El-Kott A, Morsy K, Haddad SS, Madkour N, Kandyel RM. Ultrastructural and histological descriptions of the oropharyngeal cavity of the rock pigeon Columba livia dakhlae with special refer to its adaptive dietary adaptations. Microsc Res Tech 2021; 84:3116-3127. [PMID: 34289208 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.23870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The current investigation gave a full ultrastructural and histological description of the oropharyngeal cavity of the rock-pigeon Columba livia dakhlae. Our study carried on 10 heads of adult rock pigeons by gross, scanning, and light microscopic examination, in addition to the immunohistochemical analysis of the cytokeratin of the dorsal surface mucosa epithelium and the proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression (PCNA) immunoreactivity. The pointed apex of the elongated tongue covered rostrally and laterally with numerous caudally directed scales-like papillae. The dorsal surface of the apex and body was covered with numerous caudally directed scales-like filiform papillae. The U-shaped transverse papillary crest carried caudally directed pointed triangular conical papillae with two giant papillae. The elevated caudal area of the lingual body contains little numbers of the opening of the lingual gland. The laryngeal mound is divided into two symmetrical halves by rostral fissure and caudal laryngeal fissure into the right and left half. There were four palatine ridges: two lateral, middle, and median ridges. The choanal field bounded by the two lateral palatine ridges and containing the median choanae. The rostral part of the palatine cleft bounded laterally by a line of the small caudally directed conical papillae, while the caudal part was free from these papillae. There was a little number of taste buds in the palate. The high magnification of the rostral part of the beak is covered with directed rods-like projections. In conclusion, the obtained results described the adaptations of the tongue and its belonged structures with the feeding demand of the rock-pigeon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M A Abumandour
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Eman R Elbealy
- Biology Department, College of Science for girls, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Attalla El-Kott
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Kareem Morsy
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Seham S Haddad
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Egypt
| | - Naglaa Madkour
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ramadan M Kandyel
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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9
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Gewaily MS, Abumandour MMA. Gross morphological, histological and scanning electron specifications of the oropharyngeal cavity of the hooded crow (Corvus cornix pallescens). Anat Histol Embryol 2021; 50:72-83. [PMID: 32794280 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The present study was carried out on the oropharyngeal cavity of the hooded crow to investigate the gross and microscopic structures via gross anatomy, light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The gross anatomy clarified the elongated triangular shape of the oropharyngeal cavity with a non-protruding tongue with a bifid apex. The lingual body contained median groove rostrally and separated caudally from the root by a transverse papillary crest. The laryngeal mound located posterior to the lingual root, contained midline laryngeal cleft and bounded caudally by a transverse row of pharyngeal papillae. The palate contained choanal cleft rostrally and infundibular slit caudally in addition to five palatine ridges. By light microscopy, the dorsal lingual epithelium was highly keratinised stratified squamous with a lingual nail in the most rostral part of the apex. Then, the thickness of the keratin layer decreased caudally, while in the ventral surface, the lining epithelium became non-keratinised. The entoglossum supported the lingual body and root, but not extended to the apex. The lining epithelium of the palate was also keratinised stratified squamous and became none-keratinised at the oral side of the choanal cleft. There were numerous lobules of polystomatic salivary glands in the lingual root and the palate. SEM revealed the arrangement of different types of papillae covering both the floor and the roof of the oropharynx besides numerous openings of salivary glands in the lingual root, laryngeal mound and the palate. These findings reflect the functional relationship of the oropharyngeal cavity of the hooded crow during feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud S Gewaily
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M A Abumandour
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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10
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du Toit CJ, Chinsamy A, Cunningham SJ. Cretaceous origins of the vibrotactile bill-tip organ in birds. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20202322. [PMID: 33259758 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.2322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Some probe-foraging birds locate their buried prey by detecting mechanical vibrations in the substrate using a specialized tactile bill-tip organ comprising mechanoreceptors embedded in densely clustered pits in the bone at the tip of their beak. This remarkable sensory modality is known as 'remote touch', and the associated bill-tip organ is found in probe-foraging taxa belonging to both the palaeognathous (in kiwi) and neognathous (in ibises and shorebirds) clades of modern birds. Intriguingly, a structurally similar bill-tip organ is also present in the beaks of extant, non-probing palaeognathous birds (e.g. emu and ostriches) that do not use remote touch. By comparison with our comprehensive sample representing all orders of extant modern birds (Neornithes), we provide evidence that the lithornithids (the most basal known palaeognathous birds which evolved in the Cretaceous period) had the ability to use remote touch. This finding suggests that the occurrence of the vestigial bony bill-tip organ in all modern non-probing palaeognathous birds represents a plesiomorphic condition. Furthermore, our results show that remote-touch probe foraging evolved very early among the Neornithes and it may even have predated the palaeognathous-neognathous divergence. We postulate that the tactile bony bill-tip organ in Neornithes may have originated from other snout tactile specializations of their non-avian theropod ancestors.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J du Toit
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa.,DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Palaeosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Private Bag 3, Wits 2050, South Africa.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rhodes Gift 7700, South Africa
| | - A Chinsamy
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rhodes Gift 7700, South Africa
| | - S J Cunningham
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
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11
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Neves DP, Mehdizadeh SA, Santana MR, Amadori MS, Banhazi TM, de Alencar Nääs I. Young Broiler Feeding Kinematic Analysis as A Function of the Feed Type. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9121149. [PMID: 31847441 PMCID: PMC6940888 DOI: 10.3390/ani9121149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The present study aims to compare the kinematic feeding variables of 3–4 days old broiler chickens using three different feed types: fine mash (F1), coarse mash (F2), and crumbled (F3); size was 476 µm, 638 µm, and 1243 µm, respectively. The head displacement and the maximum beak gape were automatically calculated by computational image analysis to find the feeding behavior of broilers. The results did not show strong correlations between birds’ weight, beak size (length and width), and the kinematic variables. The “catch-and-throw” movements in F1 (the smallest feed particle) generally occurred in the first mandibulation, while in F3 (the largest feed particle) occurred in the latest mandibulation. It can be suggested that the adoption of “catch-and-throw” in the latest mandibulations increases with larger particles. Abstract Past publications describe the various impact of feeding behavior of broilers on productivity and physiology. However, very few publications have considered the impact of biomechanics associated with the feeding process in birds. The present study aims at comparing the kinematic variables of young broiler chicks (3–4 days old; 19 specimens) while feeding them with three different feed types, such as fine mash (F1), coarse mash (F2), and crumbled feed (F3). The feeding behavior of the birds was recorded using a high-speed camera. Frames sequences of each mandibulation were selected manually and classified according to the temporal order that occurred (first, second, third, or fourth, and further). The head displacement and the maximum beak gape were automatically calculated by image analysis. The results did not indicate strong correlations between birds’ weight, beak size (length and width), and the kinematic variables of feeding. The differences between the tested feed were found mostly in the first and second mandibulations, probably explained by the higher incidence of “catch-and-throw” movements in F3 (33%) and F1 (26%) than F2 (20%). The “catch-and-throw” movements in F1 (the smallest feed particle) mostly occurred in the first mandibulation, as in F3 (the largest feed particle) also occurred in the latest mandibulations. It might be suggested that the adoption of “catch-and-throw” in the latest mandibulations increases with larger particles. The kinematic variables in the latest mandibulations (from the third one on) seem to be similar for all feed types, which represent the swallowing phase. It might be inferred that the temporal sequence of the mandibulations should be essential to describe the kinematics of a feeding scene of broiler chickens, and the first and second mandibulations are potentially the key factors for the differences accounted by the diverse feed particle sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Pereira Neves
- College of Agriculture Engineering, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13000-000, Brazil; (D.P.N.); (I.d.A.N.)
| | - Saman Abdanan Mehdizadeh
- Department of Mechanics of Biosystems Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Rural Development, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Ahvaz, Khuzestan 6133613395, Iran
- Correspondence:
| | - Mayara Rodrigues Santana
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Federal University of Grande Dourados, Dourados-MS 79800-000, Brazil; (M.R.S.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Marlon Sávio Amadori
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Federal University of Grande Dourados, Dourados-MS 79800-000, Brazil; (M.R.S.); (M.S.A.)
| | - Thomas Michael Banhazi
- Faculty of Health, Engineering and Science, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba Campus, Toowoomba 4350, QLD, Australia;
- PLF Agritech Pty. Ltd. Toowoomba 4350, QLD, Australia
| | - Irenilza de Alencar Nääs
- College of Agriculture Engineering, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13000-000, Brazil; (D.P.N.); (I.d.A.N.)
- PLF Agritech Pty. Ltd. Toowoomba 4350, QLD, Australia
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12
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van Meer NMME, Weller HI, Manafzadeh AR, Kaczmarek EB, Scott B, Gussekloo SWS, Wilga CD, Brainerd EL, Camp AL. Intra-oropharyngeal food transport and swallowing in white-spotted bamboo sharks. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 222:jeb.201426. [PMID: 31672726 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.201426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite the importance of intraoral food transport and swallowing, relatively few studies have examined the biomechanics of these behaviors in non-tetrapods, which lack a muscular tongue. Studies show that elasmobranch and teleost fishes generate water currents as a 'hydrodynamic tongue' that presumably transports food towards and into the esophagus. However, it remains largely unknown how specific musculoskeletal motions during transport correspond to food motion. Previous studies of white-spotted bamboo sharks (Chiloscyllium plagiosum) hypothesized that motions of the hyoid, branchial arches and pectoral girdle, generate caudal motion of the food through the long oropharynx of modern sharks. To test these hypotheses, we measured food and cartilage motion with XROMM during intra-oropharyngeal transport and swallowing (N=3 individuals, 2-3 trials per individual). After entering the mouth, food does not move smoothly toward the esophagus, but rather moves in distinct steps with relatively little retrograde motion. Caudal food motion coincides with hyoid elevation and a closed mouth, supporting earlier studies showing that hyoid motion contributes to intra-oropharyngeal food transport by creating caudally directed water currents. Little correspondence between pectoral girdle and food motion was found, indicating minimal contribution of pectoral girdle motion. Transport speed was fast as food entered the mouth, slower and step-wise through the pharyngeal region and then fast again as it entered the esophagus. The food's static periods in the step-wise motion and its high velocity during swallowing could not be explained by hyoid or girdle motion, suggesting these sharks may also use the branchial arches for intra-oropharyngeal transport and swallowing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noraly M M E van Meer
- Experimental Zoology Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, NL-6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hannah I Weller
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Armita R Manafzadeh
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Elska B Kaczmarek
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Bradley Scott
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Victor E. Shelford Vivarium, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Sander W S Gussekloo
- Experimental Zoology Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 338, NL-6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Cheryl D Wilga
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alaska Anchorage, 3101 Science Circle, Anchorage, AK 99508, USA
| | - Elizabeth L Brainerd
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Ariel L Camp
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA.,Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L7 8TX, UK
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13
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Evolution of the vomer and its implications for cranial kinesis in Paraves. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:19571-19578. [PMID: 31501339 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1907754116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Most living birds exhibit cranial kinesis-movement between the rostrum and braincase-in which force is transferred through the palatal and jugal bars. The palate alone distinguishes the Paleognathae from the Neognathae, with cranial kinesis more developed in neognaths. Most previous palatal studies were based on 2D data and rarely incorporated data from stem birds despite great interest in their kinetic abilities. Here we reconstruct the vomer of the Early Cretaceous stem bird Sapeornis and the troodontid Sinovenator, taxa spanning the dinosaur-bird transition. A 3D shape analysis including these paravians and an extensive sampling of neornithines reveals their strong similarity to paleognaths and indicates that morphological differences in the vomer between paleognaths and neognaths are intimately related to their different kinetic abilities. These results suggest the skull of Mesozoic paravians lacked the kinetic abilities observed in neognaths, a conclusion also supported by our identification of an ectopterygoid in Sapeornis here. We conclude that cranial kinesis evolved relatively late, likely an innovation of the Neognathae, and is linked to the transformation of the vomer. This transformation increased palatal mobility, enabling the evolution of a diversity of kinetic mechanisms and ultimately contributing to the extraordinary evolutionary success of this clade.
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14
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Camp AL. What Fish Can Teach Us about the Feeding Functions of Postcranial Muscles and Joints. Integr Comp Biol 2019; 59:383-393. [DOI: 10.1093/icb/icz005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Studies of vertebrate feeding have predominantly focused on the bones and muscles of the head, not the body. Yet, postcranial musculoskeletal structures like the spine and pectoral girdle are anatomically linked to the head, and may also have mechanical connections through which they can contribute to feeding. The feeding roles of postcranial structures have been best studied in ray-finned fishes, where the body muscles, vertebral column, and pectoral girdle attach directly to the head and help expand the mouth during suction feeding. Therefore, I use the anatomy and motion of the head–body interface in these fishes to develop a mechanical framework for studying postcranial functions during feeding. In fish the head and body are linked by the vertebral column, the pectoral girdle, and the body muscles that actuate these skeletal systems. The morphology of the joints and muscles of the cranio-vertebral and hyo-pectoral interfaces may determine the mobility of the head relative to the body, and ultimately the role of these interfaces during feeding. The postcranial interfaces can function as anchors during feeding: the body muscles and joints minimize motion between the head and body to stabilize the head or transmit forces from the body. Alternatively, the postcranial interfaces can be motors: body muscles actuate motion between the head and body to generate power for feeding motions. The motor function is likely important for many suction-feeding fishes, while the anchor function may be key for bite- or ram-feeding fishes. This framework can be used to examine the role of the postcranial interface in other vertebrate groups, and how that role changes (or not) with morphology and feeding behaviors. Such studies can expand our understanding of muscle function, as well as the evolution of vertebrate feeding behaviors across major transitions such as the invasion of land and the emergence of jaws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel L Camp
- Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
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15
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Demmel Ferreira MM, Tambussi CP, Degrange FJ, Pestoni S, Tirao GA. The cranio-mandibular complex of the nightjar Systellura longirostris (Aves, Caprimulgiformes): functional relationship between osteology, myology and feeding. ZOOLOGY 2019; 132:6-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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16
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Crole MR, Soley JT. Persistence of Meckel's cartilage in sub‐adult
Struthio camelus
and
Dromaius novaehollandiae. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Rachel Crole
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science University of Pretoria Onderstepoort South Africa
| | - John Thomson Soley
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science University of Pretoria Onderstepoort South Africa
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17
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Gross morphological and ultrastructural characterization of the oropharyngeal cavity of the Eurasian hoopoe captured from Egypt. Anat Sci Int 2018; 94:172-179. [PMID: 30357609 DOI: 10.1007/s12565-018-0463-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to give full morphological insight into the oropharyngeal cavity of Eurasian hoopoe at the level of gross morphology in addition to ultrastructural inspection including light- and scanning electron microscopy. The oropharyngeal cavity has a triangular appearance with a very long rostrally located beak, helping the bird achieve its feeding mechanism. The floor of the oropharyngeal cavity is divided into three parts; a pre-lingual part with a pre-lingual fold, a lingual part containing a rudimentary triangular tongue, and a laryngeal part, which contains a small elevated laryngeal mound. There are four giant papillae and numerous openings of lingual salivary glands on the root. The roof is divided into the pre-choanal and the choanal region. The pre-choanal region has two parallel palatine ridges, while the choanal region had an ovoid-shaped choanal cleft rostrally, followed caudally by a narrow infundibular slit. The mechanical papillae on the roof are arranged in two rows directed caudally; one row is located on the free border of rostral half of the choanal cleft, while the other row is located between the pharynx cavity and the esophagus. The histological study showed that the tongue was covered dorsally and ventrally by keratinized stratified squamous epithelium and supported centrally by entoglossum, which extends from the root until the rostral tip of the tongue. The entoglossum was mainly cartilaginous rostrally in the apex and ossified caudally in the lingual body and root. Numerous mucous glands scattered in the sub mucosa of the lingual root as well as in the palatine region convey their secretions to the surface through a duct guarded by diffuse lymphocytic infiltration.
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18
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Urano Y, Tanoue K, Matsumoto R, Kawabe S, Ohashi T, Fujiwara SI. How does the curvature of the upper beak bone reflect the overlying rhinotheca morphology? J Morphol 2018; 279:636-647. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yukine Urano
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Graduate School of Environmental Studies; Nagoya University; Nagoya Japan
| | - Kyo Tanoue
- Department of Earth System Science; Fukuoka University; Fukuoka Japan
| | | | | | - Tomoyuki Ohashi
- Kitakyushu Museum of Natural History and Human History; Kitakyushu Japan
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19
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Rico-Guevara A. Relating form to function in the hummingbird feeding apparatus. PeerJ 2017; 5:e3449. [PMID: 28607842 PMCID: PMC5466813 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A complete understanding of the feeding structures is fundamental in order to study how animals survive. Some birds use long and protrusible tongues as the main tool to collect their central caloric source (e.g., woodpeckers and nectarivores). Hummingbirds are the oldest and most diverse clade of nectarivorous vertebrates, being a perfect subject to study tongue specializations. Their tongue functions to intraorally transport arthropods through their long bills and enables them to exploit the nectarivorous niche by collecting small amounts of liquid, therefore it is of vital importance to study its anatomy and structure at various scales. I focused on the portions of the hummingbird tongue that have been shown to be key for understanding their feeding mechanisms. I used histology, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, microCT, and ex-vivo experiments in order to advance the comprehension of the morphology and functioning of the hummingbird feeding apparatus. I found that hummingbird tongues are composed mainly of thin cornified epithelium, lack papillae, and completely fill the internal cast of the rostral oropharyngeal cavity. Understanding this puzzle-piece match between bill and tongue will be essential for the study of intraoral transport of nectar. Likewise, I found that the structural composition and tissue architecture of the tongue groove walls provide the rostral portion of the tongue with elastic properties that are central to the study of tongue-nectar interactions during the feeding process. Detailed studies on hummingbirds set the basis for comparisons with other nectar-feeding birds and contribute to comprehend the natural solutions to collecting liquids in the most efficient way possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Rico-Guevara
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States of America
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20
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Abumandour MMA, El-Bakary NER. Morphological Characteristics of the Oropharyngeal Cavity (Tongue, Palate and Laryngeal Entrance) in the Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra, Linnaeus, 1758). Anat Histol Embryol 2017; 46:347-358. [PMID: 28543621 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The present study represents the first definitive anatomical description of the oropharyngeal cavity of the coot Fulica atra. For this purpose, the organs of six birds were prepared to examine grossly and by SEM and stereomicroscope. The oval lingual apex had multiple overlapping branched acicular processes on its anterior and lateral border. The lingual apex and body had multiple caudally directed filiform-like papillae. By stereomicroscopy, the lingual root had a characteristic appearance and consisted of four parts. The openings of the anterior glands were present on the dorsal lingual surface of the body, while the projected papillae with wide openings of the posterior glands were present on the dorsal surface of lingual root. There was a row of caudally directed pharyngeal papillae at the caudal border of the laryngeal mound. Grossly, the pharyngeal papillae arrangement took a W-shape, while by stereomicroscopy was observed to be heart shape. The palate was divided into two regions: a small rostral non-papillary and a large caudal papillary region, but the rostral region was characterized by the presence of three longitudinal ridges. The papillary crest had two paramedian longitudinal papillary rows, which continued caudally until the beginning of the third median row. The freely distributed papillae took a caudolateral direction, while the papillae encircling the rostral part of choanal cleft took a caudomedial direction. There was a transverse papillary row between the two parts of choanal cleft. There was a transverse papillary row between the caudal border of the infundibular cleft and oesophagus.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M A Abumandour
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Rshide, Egypt
| | - N E R El-Bakary
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, Damietta, Egypt
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21
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Gussekloo SWS, Berthaume MA, Pulaski DR, Westbroek I, Waarsing JH, Heinen R, Grosse IR, Dumont ER. Functional and evolutionary consequences of cranial fenestration in birds. Evolution 2017; 71:1327-1338. [DOI: 10.1111/evo.13210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sander W. S. Gussekloo
- Experimental Zoology Group Wageningen University PO‐Box 338 NL‐6700 AH Wageningen the Netherlands
| | - Michael A. Berthaume
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering University of Massachusetts at Amherst 160 Governors Drive Amherst Massachusetts 01003–2210
- Department of Anthropology University of Massachusetts at Amherst 215 Machmer Hall Amherst Massachusetts 01003
- Current Address: Max Planck Weizmann Center for Integrative Archaeology and Anthropology Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology Deutscher Platz 6 04103 Leipzig Germany
| | - Daniel R. Pulaski
- Department of Biology University of Massachusetts at Amherst 221 Morrill Science Center Amherst Massachusetts 01003
| | - Irene Westbroek
- Orthopaedics Research Laboratory Erasmus MC P.O. Box 2040 3000 CA Rotterdam the Netherlands
| | - Jan H. Waarsing
- Orthopaedics Research Laboratory Erasmus MC P.O. Box 2040 3000 CA Rotterdam the Netherlands
| | - Robin Heinen
- Experimental Zoology Group Wageningen University PO‐Box 338 NL‐6700 AH Wageningen the Netherlands
- Current Address: Department of Terrestrial Ecology Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO‐KNAW) Droevendaalsesteeg 10 6708PB Wageningen the Netherlands
| | - Ian R. Grosse
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering University of Massachusetts at Amherst 160 Governors Drive Amherst Massachusetts 01003–2210
| | - Elizabeth R. Dumont
- Department of Biology University of Massachusetts at Amherst 221 Morrill Science Center Amherst Massachusetts 01003
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22
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Crole MR, Soley JT. Bony Pits in the Ostrich (Struthio camelus) and Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) Bill Tip. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2017; 300:1705-1715. [PMID: 28296166 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A specialized region of the bill tip characterized by a complex arrangement of mechanoreceptors and referred to as a bill tip organ, has been identified in numerous avians. A bill tip organ was initially inferred in kiwi species by the presence of numerous, bony pits in the rostrum of the bill, and later confirmed histologically. This study enumerates and compares the number and distribution of pits present in the bill tip in the ostrich and emu. The heads from 10 ostrich and 5 emu were prepared for osteological examination. The pattern and total number of pits was similar between the two species. However, the ostrich had significantly more pits in the regions underlying the Culmen and Gonys, whereas the emu displayed significantly more pits in the dorsal part of the mandibular rostrum. The relatively even distribution of pits in the inner and outer surfaces of both the mandibular and maxillary rostra suggest that the bill tip of the ostrich and emu are equally sensitive externally and intra-orally, as opposed to probing birds, where the major concentration of pits is located on the outer surfaces of the bill tips. The presence of pits in the bill tips of extant paleaognaths may be of relevance in interpreting the pits in the rostra of extinct therapod dinosaurs. The presence of bony pits in a region which is also well supplied with sensory nerves is highly suggestive of a bill tip organ in the ostrich and emu and which needs to be confirmed histologically. Anat Rec, 300:1705-1715, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina R Crole
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - John T Soley
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
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23
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Bailleul AM, Witmer LM, Holliday CM. Cranial joint histology in the mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos): new insights on avian cranial kinesis. J Anat 2017; 230:444-460. [PMID: 27921292 PMCID: PMC5314395 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The evolution of avian cranial kinesis is a phenomenon in part responsible for the remarkable diversity of avian feeding adaptations observable today. Although osteological, developmental and behavioral features of the feeding system are frequently studied, comparatively little is known about cranial joint skeletal tissue composition and morphology from a microscopic perspective. These data are key to understanding the developmental, biomechanical and evolutionary underpinnings of kinesis. Therefore, here we investigated joint microstructure in juvenile and adult mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos; Anseriformes). Ducks belong to a diverse clade of galloanseriform birds, have derived adaptations for herbivory and kinesis, and are model organisms in developmental biology. Thus, new insights into their cranial functional morphology will refine our understanding of avian cranial evolution. A total of five specimens (two ducklings and three adults) were histologically sampled, and two additional specimens (a duckling and an adult) were subjected to micro-computed tomographic scanning. Five intracranial joints were sampled: the jaw joint (quadrate-articular); otic joint (quadrate-squamosal); palatobasal joint (parasphenoid-pterygoid); the mandibular symphysis (dentary-dentary); and the craniofacial hinge (a complex flexion zone involving four different pairs of skeletal elements). In both the ducklings and adults, the jaw, otic and palatobasal joints are all synovial, with a synovial cavity and articular cartilage on each surface (i.e. bichondral joints) ensheathed in a fibrous capsule. The craniofacial hinge begins as an ensemble of patent sutures in the duckling, but in the adult it becomes more complex: laterally it is synovial; whereas medially, it is synostosed by a bridge of chondroid bone. We hypothesize that it is chondroid bone that provides some of the flexible properties of this joint. The heavily innervated mandibular symphysis is already fused in the ducklings and remains as such in the adult. The results of this study will serve as reference for documenting avian cranial kinesis from a microanatomical perspective. The formation of: (i) secondary articular cartilage on the membrane bones of extant birds; and (ii) their unique ability to form movable synovial joints within two or more membrane bones (i.e. within their dermatocranium) might have played a role in the origin and evolution of modern avian cranial kinesis during dinosaur evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alida M. Bailleul
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical SciencesUniversity of Missouri‐School of MedicineColumbiaMOUSA
| | - Lawrence M. Witmer
- Department of Biomedical SciencesHeritage College of Osteopathic MedicineOhio UniversityAthensOHUSA
| | - Casey M. Holliday
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical SciencesUniversity of Missouri‐School of MedicineColumbiaMOUSA
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24
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Abumandour MMA, El-Bakary NER. Morphological features of the tongue and laryngeal entrance in two predatory birds with similar feeding preferences: common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) and Hume's tawny owl (Strix butleri). Anat Sci Int 2016; 92:352-363. [PMID: 27084364 DOI: 10.1007/s12565-016-0339-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this investigation was to describe the morphological characters of the tongue of two predatory birds with similar feeding preferences, i.e. the common kestrel and Hume's tawny owl. Descriptive information on the lingual morphology of these two birds, particularly Hume's tawny owl, is incomplete. We found that the lingual apex of the owl has an oval, concave, shovel-like form with a bifid lingual tip, while that of the kestrel has the shape of a horny tip-like spoon with a central process in addition to there being several filiform-like papillae on the dorsal surface of the apex and body. In the owl, the dorsal surface of the apex and body is subdivided into four U-shaped regions: lingual tip, two lateral regions and a median region. The two lateral regions are characterized by the presence of papillae and several openings of lingual glands, while the median region carries filiform-like papillae. In both birds, the papillary crest is located between the body and root. In the kestrel, there is an additional row of papillae rostral to crest, while in the owl there is a rostral lateral extension of papillae on the lateral lingual surface so the distribution pattern has a W-shape. In the kestrel, the posterior part of lingual body has several openings of glands, while the root lacks glands completely, although it has many taste buds. In the owl, the lingual root is folded and has a large number of gland openings. In the kestrel caudally to the glottis, there are two paramedian transverse rows of pharyngeal papillae with a pair of median huge papillae, while in the owl, there is only one transverse row of papillae. The dorsal and ventral lingual surfaces of both birds are lined with non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M A Abumandour
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Rashid, Edfina, Behera, 22785, Egypt.
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25
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Huang J, Wang X, Hu Y, Liu J, Peteya JA, Clarke JA. A new ornithurine from the Early Cretaceous of China sheds light on the evolution of early ecological and cranial diversity in birds. PeerJ 2016; 4:e1765. [PMID: 27019777 PMCID: PMC4806634 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.1765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the increasing number of exceptional feathered fossils discovered in the Late Jurassic and Cretaceous of northeastern China, representatives of Ornithurae, a clade that includes comparatively-close relatives of crown clade Aves (extant birds) and that clade, are still comparatively rare. Here, we report a new ornithurine species Changzuiornis ahgmi from the Early Cretaceous Jiufotang Formation. The new species shows an extremely elongate rostrum so far unknown in basal ornithurines and changes our understanding of the evolution of aspects of extant avian ecology and cranial evolution. Most of this elongate rostrum in Changzuiornis ahgmi is made up of maxilla, a characteristic not present in the avian crown clade in which most of the rostrum and nearly the entire facial margin is made up by premaxilla. The only other avialans known to exhibit an elongate rostrum with the facial margin comprised primarily of maxilla are derived ornithurines previously placed phylogenetically as among the closest outgroups to the avian crown clade as well as one derived enantiornithine clade. We find that, consistent with a proposed developmental shift in cranial ontogeny late in avialan evolution, this elongate rostrum is achieved through elongation of the maxilla while the premaxilla remains only a small part of rostral length. Thus, only in Late Cretaceous ornithurine taxa does the premaxilla begin to play a larger role. The rostral and postcranial proportions of Changzuiornis suggest an ecology not previously reported in Ornithurae; the only other species with an elongate rostrum are two marine Late Cretacous taxa interpreted as showing a derived picivorous diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiandong Huang
- Department of Research, Anhui Geological Museum , Anhui , China
| | - Xia Wang
- Department of Geological Sciences, Jackson School of Geoscience, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, TX , United States
| | - Yuanchao Hu
- Department of Research, Anhui Geological Museum , Anhui , China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Research, Anhui Geological Museum , Anhui , China
| | - Jennifer A Peteya
- Department of Biology & Integrated BioScience Program, University of Akron , Akron, OH , United States
| | - Julia A Clarke
- Department of Geological Sciences, Jackson School of Geoscience, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, TX , United States
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Carril J, Degrange FJ, Tambussi CP. Jaw myology and bite force of the monk parakeet (Aves, Psittaciformes). J Anat 2015; 227:34-44. [PMID: 26053435 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Psittaciform birds exhibit novelties in jaw bone structure and musculature that are associated with strong bite forces. These features include an ossified arcus suborbitalis and the muscles ethmomandibularis and pseudomasseter. We analyse the jaw musculature of the monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) to enable future studies aimed at understanding craniofacial development, morphology, function and evolution. We estimate bite force based on muscle dissections, physiological cross-sectional area and skull biomechanical modelling. We also compare our results with available data for other birds and traced the evolutionary origin of the three novel diagnostic traits. Our results indicate that, in Myiopsitta, (i) the arcus suborbitalis is absent and the orbit is ventrally closed by an elongate processus orbitalis and a short ligamentum suborbitale; (ii) the ethmomandibularis muscle is a conspicuous muscle with two bellies, with its origin on the anterior portion of the septum interorbitale and insertion on the medial aspect of the mandible; (iii) the pseudomasseter muscle consists of some fibers arising from the m. adductor mandibulae externus superficialis, covering the lateral surface of the arcus jugalis and attaches by an aponeurotic sheet on the processus orbitalis; (iv) a well-developed adductor mandibulae complex is present; (v) the bite force estimation relative to body mass is higher than that calculated for other non-psittaciform species; and (vi) character evolution analysis revealed that the absence of the arcus suborbitalis and the presence of the m. pseudomassseter are the ancestral conditions, and mapping is inconclusive about presence of one or two bellies of the m. ethmomandibularis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Carril
- Cátedra de Histología y Embriología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), CONICET is a national institution, Argentina
| | - Federico J Degrange
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), CONICET is a national institution, Argentina.,Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Tierra (CICTERRA), CONICET-UNC, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Claudia P Tambussi
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), CONICET is a national institution, Argentina.,Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Tierra (CICTERRA), CONICET-UNC, Córdoba, Argentina
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Contrasting morphological evidence for the presence of taste buds in Dromaius novaehollandiae and Struthio camelus (Palaeognathae, Aves). ZOOMORPHOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s00435-015-0268-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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28
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Neves DP, Banhazi TM, Nääs IA. Feeding behaviour of broiler chickens: a review on the biomechanical characteristics. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2014. [DOI: 10.1590/1516-635x16021-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- DP Neves
- State University of Campinas, Brazil
| | - TM Banhazi
- University of Southern Queensland, Australia
| | - IA Nääs
- State University of Campinas, Brazil
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Crole MR, Soley JT. Comparative distribution and arrangement of Herbst corpuscles in the oropharynx of the ostrich (Struthio camelus) and emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2014; 297:1338-48. [PMID: 24782341 DOI: 10.1002/ar.22933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Herbst corpuscles are widely distributed throughout the oropharynx of the ostrich and emu in contrast to the general situation in birds. Knowledge of the comparative distribution of Herbst corpuscles in the oropharynx of these two commercially important ratite species may assist in a better understanding of their feeding habits. Tissue sections representing all parts of the oropharynx of five ostrich and five emu heads collected after slaughter were prepared for light microscopy, the Herbst corpuscles counted, and the relative percentage of corpuscles calculated for defined anatomical regions. Herbst corpuscles were more widespread in the oropharynx of the emu (where they were additionally found in the tongue and laryngeal mound) than in the ostrich but were absent from the pharyngeal folds in both species. The results further indicated that Herbst corpuscles were strategically located to aid in the handling and transport of food. In this context, the high concentration of Herbst corpuscles in the prominent median palatine and ventral ridges in the ostrich denote these structures as sensory organs, namely the palatal and interramal organs. The presence of these sensory organs, coupled with the higher relative percentage of Herbst corpuscles located on the rostral oropharyngeal floor, indicate that the part of the oropharynx caudal to the mandibular and maxillary rostra forms an important sensory region in the ostrich. Additionally, species-specific concentrations of Herbst corpuscles within the oropharynx were identified which appear to assist in the accurate positioning of the tongue and laryngeal mound for cleaning the choana (internal nares) after swallowing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Rachel Crole
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
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Erdoğan S, Iwasaki SI. Function-related morphological characteristics and specialized structures of the avian tongue. Ann Anat 2013; 196:75-87. [PMID: 24219998 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2013.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Revised: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
As a reflection of different life styles and environment, the tongue of vertebrates, which plays a major role in the intake and swallowing of food, displays significant morphological differences. The gross form and microscopic structure of the avian tongue differ greatly according to lifestyle. The avian tongue plays a fundamental role in many functions such as capturing, filtering, sucking and manipulating food in order to compensate absence of subsidiary organs like teeth in the oropharyngeal cavity. Variations in lingual papillae play an important role in feeding of birds, as they represent a structure similar to teeth in the upper and lower beaks and can be used to hold and direct food in the oropharyngeal cavity. Tongues of birds exhibit common as well as varying anatomical characteristics in terms of surface morphology, structure and topographical distribution of lingual papillae as well as distinct specialized structures, epithelial layers, taste buds and lingual glands. This review evaluates the important morphological peculiarities of the tongue in birds, focusing on the relationship between anatomical features and feeding functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Erdoğan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dicle University, Diyarbakir 21280, Turkey.
| | - Shin-ichi Iwasaki
- Department of Physiology, The Nippon Dental University, School of Dentistry at Niigata, 1-8 Hamaura-cho, Niigata 951-8580, Japan
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31
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Crole MR, Soley JT, Clift SJ. Incidental Mycobacterium-induced granulomatous inflammation of the follicular pharyngeal tonsils in a South African farmed ostrich ( Struthio camelus). J S Afr Vet Assoc 2013. [DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v84i1.961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian mycobacteriosis (AM) is a zoonotic disease caused by Mycobacterium aviumcomplex (MAC), which can spread from avians to other farmed animals such as cattle and pigs as well as to humans. This study is the first report of granulomatous inflammation, as a result of avian mycobacteriosis, in the follicular pharyngeal tonsils of a farmed ostrich. The head of an apparently healthy farmed adult ostrich was obtained after slaughter. Each pharyngeal fold displayed a large tissue mass. This tissue was routinely prepared for light microscopy and stained with haematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid Schiff, Grocott methenamine silver, Gram and Ziehl-Neelsen. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were performed to identify Mycobacterium spp. and Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, respectively. Histologically, the tissue masses consisted of confluent mature micro-granulomata that were characterised by central caseous necrosis surrounded by multinucleated giant cells, macrophages and lymphoid cells and an outer mature fibrous connective tissue capsule. Within some foci of caseous necrosis were variably sized colonies of small, Gram-negative, acid-fast bacilli, which showed positive IHC labelling for Mycobacterium spp., leading to a presumptive diagnosis of AM. PCR thus proved useful in excluding the presence of notifiable Mycobacteriumspp. The significance and role of the pharyngeal tonsils of ratites in diseases such as AM warrant specific attention. Moreover, as ratites are known to present with AM infections with apparently no visible loss in body condition, as presumably occurred in the present case, it is imperative that unusual masses in apparently healthy ratites be thoroughly investigated.
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Rodrigues MN, Tivane CN, Carvalho RC, Oliveira GB, Silva RS, Ambrosio CE, Oliveira MF, Miglino MA. Gross morphology of rhea oropharyngeal cavity. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2012. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2012001300011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The rhea (Rhea americana americana) is an american bird belonging to Ratite's family. Studies related to its morphology are still scarce. This study aims to describe the macroscopic structures of the oropharyngeal cavity. Five heads (2 to 6 months old) formalin preserved were anatomically dissected to expose the oropharynx. The oropharynx of the rhea was "bell-shaped" composed by the maxillary and mandibular rhamphotheca. The roof and floor presented two distinct regions different in colour of the mucosa. The rostral region was pale pink contrasting to grey coloured caudal region. The median longitudinal ridge extended rostrally from the apex of the choana to the tip of the beak in the roof and it is clearly more prominent and rigid than the homolog in the floor that appeared thin and stretched merely along the rostral portion of the regio interramalis. The floor was formed by the interramal region, (regio interramalis) tongue and laryngeal mound containing glove-shaped glottis. This study confirmed the basic morphology of the oropharinx of the rhea. However, important morphological information not previously described is highlighted and contradictory information present in the literature is clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rafael C. Carvalho
- Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Maranhão, Brazil
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Crole MR, Soley JT. Evidence of a true pharyngeal tonsil in birds: a novel lymphoid organ in Dromaius novaehollandiae and Struthio camelus (Palaeognathae). Front Zool 2012; 9:21. [PMID: 22909013 PMCID: PMC3502113 DOI: 10.1186/1742-9994-9-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED BACKGROUND Tonsils are secondary lymphoid organs located in the naso- and oropharynx of most mammalian species. Most tonsils are characterised by crypts surrounded by dense lymphoid tissue. However, tonsils without crypts have also been recognised. Gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), although not well-organised and lacking tonsillar crypts, is abundant in the avian oropharynx and has been referred to as the "pharyngeal tonsil". In this context the pharyngeal folds present in the oropharynx of ratites have erroneously been named the pharyngeal tonsils. This study distinguishes between the different types and arrangements of lymphoid tissue in the pharyngeal region of D. novaehollandiae and S. camelus and demonstrates that both species possess a true pharyngeal tonsil which fits the classical definition of tonsils in mammals. RESULTS The pharyngeal tonsil (Tonsilla pharyngea) of D. novaehollandiae was located on the dorsal free surface of the pharyngeal folds and covered by a small caudo-lateral extension of the folds whereas in S. camelus the tonsil was similarly located on the dorsal surface of the pharyngeal folds but was positioned retropharyngeally and encapsulated by loose connective tissue. The pharyngeal tonsil in both species was composed of lymph nodules, inter-nodular lymphoid tissue, mucus glands, crypts and intervening connective tissue septa. In S. camelus a shallow tonsillar sinus was present. Aggregated lymph nodules and inter-nodular lymphoid tissue was associated with the mucus glands on the ventral surface of the pharyngeal folds in both species and represented the Lymphonoduli pharyngeales. Similar lymphoid tissue, but more densely packed and situated directly below the epithelium, was present on the dorsal, free surface of the pharyngeal folds and represented a small, non-follicular tonsil. CONCLUSIONS The follicular pharyngeal tonsils in D. novaehollandiae and S. camelus are distinct from the pharyngeal folds in these species and perfectly fit the classical mammalian definition of pharyngeal tonsils. The presence of a true pharyngeal tonsil differentiates these two ratite species from other known avian species where similar structures have not been described. The pharyngeal tonsils in these ratites may pose a suitable and easily accessible site for immune response surveillance as indicated by swelling and inflammation of the tonsillar tissue and pharyngeal folds. This would be facilitated by the fact that the heads of these commercially slaughtered ratites are discarded, thus sampling at these sites would not result in financial losses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina R Crole
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - John T Soley
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
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Crole MR, Soley JT. What prevents Struthio camelus and Dromaius novaehollandiae (Palaeognathae) from choking? A novel anatomical mechanism in ratites, the linguo-laryngeal apparatus. Front Zool 2012; 9:11. [PMID: 22650266 PMCID: PMC3404984 DOI: 10.1186/1742-9994-9-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The avian glottis channels air from the oropharynx to the trachea and is situated on an elevated structure, the laryngeal mound. It is imperative that the glottis be protected and closed during swallowing, which in mammals is achieved by covering the glottis with the epiglottis, as well as by adduction of the arytenoid cartilages. An epiglottis, however, is reportedly absent in birds. Ratites such as Struthio camelus and Dromaius novaehollandiae possess a very wide glottis in comparison to other birds. The question therefore arises as to how these large birds avoid inhalation of ingesta through a wide glottis, with apparently little protection, particularly as their feeding method involves throwing the food over the glottis to land in the proximal esophagus. Results In S. camelus when the glottis was closed and the tongue body retracted, the smooth tongue root became highly folded and the rostral portion of the laryngeal mound was encased by the pocket in the base of the ∩ − shaped tongue body. In this position the lingual papillae also hooked over the most rostral laryngeal projections. However, in D. novaehollandiae, retraction of the tongue body over the closed glottis resulted in the prominent, triangular tongue root sliding over the rostral portion of the laryngeal mound. In both S. camelus and D. novaehollandiae these actions resulted in the rostral portion of the laryngeal mound and weakest point of the adducted glottis being enclosed and stabilised. Conclusions Only after conducting a comparative study between these two birds using fresh specimens did it become clear how specific morphological peculiarities were perfectly specialised to assist in the closure and protection of the wide glottis. We identify, describe and propose a unique anatomical mechanism in ratites, which may functionally replace an epiglottis; the linguo-laryngeal apparatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina R Crole
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - John T Soley
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
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Gross anatomical features of the tongue, lingual skeleton and laryngeal mound of Rhea americana (Palaeognathae, Aves): morpho-functional considerations. ZOOMORPHOLOGY 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s00435-012-0156-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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36
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Tivane C, Rodrigues MN, Soley JT, Groenwald HB. Gross anatomical features of the oropharyngeal cavity of the ostrich (Struthio camelus). PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA 2011. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2011000600015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Most descriptions of the ostrich oropharynx and oesophagus are superficial and supply little meaningful morphological data. The aim of this investigation is describe the ostrich oropharingeal cavity, in order to supply the deficiency of macroscopic data about this important animal. Five heads of 12 to 14-month-old ostriches of either sex were anatomically dissected to expose the oropharynx. The ostrich oropharynx was "bell-shaped" composed by the maxillary and mandibular ramphoteca. The roof and floor presented two distinct regions different in colour of the mucosa. The rostral region was pale pink contrasting to creamy-pink coloured caudal region. The median longitudinal ridge extended rostrally from the apex of the choana to the tip of the beak in the roof and it is clearly more prominent and rigid than the homolog in the floor that appeared thin and stretched rostrally, continuing caudally surrounding the tongue and the laryngeal mound eventually merging with the oesophageal mucosa. The floor was formed by the interramal region, tongue and laryngeal mound containing shield-shaped glottis. It can be concluded that the present study, in addition to confirming the basic features of the oropharynx previously described for the ostrich, clarified the contradictory information presented in the literature and also provided new, unreported morphological data, some of which may be important when studying nutrition and health in these birds.
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Baussart S, Bels V. Tropical hornbills (Aceros cassidix, Aceros undulatus, and Buceros hydrocorax) use ballistic transport to feed with their large beaks. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 315A:72-83. [PMID: 20140955 DOI: 10.1002/jez.590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The most common and plesiomorphic mechanism of food transport in tetrapods is lingual-based. Neognathous birds use this mechanism for exploiting a large diversity of food resources, whereas paleognathous birds use cranioinertial mechanism with or without tongue involvement. Food transport in three hornbills' species (Aceros cassidix, A. undulatus, and Buceros hydrocorax) is defined by a ballistic transport mechanism. Only one transport cycle is used for moving the food from the tip of the beak to the pharynx. The tongue never makes contact with the food nor is it used to expand the buccal cavity. In hornbills, filmed through high-speed video, time to food release occurred between 0.11 and 0.16 sec before time to maximum gape. The ballistic curves show similar patterns. Maximum gape angle is significantly different between the three species. Each species show a different kinematic and motor pattern of head movements associated with ballistic transport. In A. undulatus, head rotation follows a continuous pattern similar to that reported earlier in toucans. A. cassidix rotates head downward at the time of maximum gape to permit food to reach the pharynx without touching the mandible. B. hydrocorax elevates the head along the transport cycle to avoid contact with the food to the cavity of the upper beak. Selection of large food items in the diet may explain the evolutionary trend of using ballistic transport in the feeding behavior of hornbills, which play a key role in tropical forest ecology by dispersing seeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Baussart
- UMR7179 CNRS, Department Ecologie et Gestion de la Biodiversité, National Museum of Natural History, Paris, France.
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38
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Ratite Movement. Anim Welf 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-19297-5_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Abstract
Animals have developed a range of drinking strategies depending on physiological and environmental constraints. Vertebrates with incomplete cheeks use their tongue to drink; the most common example is the lapping of cats and dogs. We show that the domestic cat (Felis catus) laps by a subtle mechanism based on water adhesion to the dorsal side of the tongue. A combined experimental and theoretical analysis reveals that Felis catus exploits fluid inertia to defeat gravity and pull liquid into the mouth. This competition between inertia and gravity sets the lapping frequency and yields a prediction for the dependence of frequency on animal mass. Measurements of lapping frequency across the family Felidae support this prediction, which suggests that the lapping mechanism is conserved among felines.
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Crole MR, Soley JT. Distribution and structure of glandular tissue in the oropharynx and proximal esophagus of the emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae). ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-6395.2010.00457.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Abstract
Despite numerous morphological studies on the avian tongue, very little meaningful information is currently available on the surface features of this organ using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The only SEM description of a ratite tongue is that of the ostrich, although the descriptions are brief and superficial. This SEM study of the emu tongue confirms and compliments the comprehensive macroscopic and histological data available for this commercially important species. The tongues of five emus were fixed, cut into blocks representing the dorsum, ventrum and root and routinely processed for SEM. Three morphologically distinguishable surface types (desquamating, non-desquamating and lymphoepithelium) related to peculiarities in surface cell shape and status (desquamating or non-desquamating), cell surface modifications and distribution of gland openings, and which showed a regional distribution, could be identified. Three basic types of cell surface modifications (microplicae, microvilli and cilia) were observed, with microvilli and cilia being described for the first time in an avian tongue by SEM. The desquamating surface cells fulfil a mechanical protective function, whereas the microplicae, microvilli and cilia appear to be adaptations for the trapping and spreading of mucus which also fulfils a protective function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Crole
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110 South Africa.
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Crole MR, Soley JT. Gross morphology of the intra-oral rhamphotheca, oropharynx and proximal oesophagus of the emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae). Anat Histol Embryol 2010; 39:207-18. [PMID: 20353488 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0264.2010.00998.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Information on the gross morphology of the upper digestive tract of ratites is sparse. This is an important region considering that it is the first area for food selection and intake which is vital to the nutrition and growth of the animal and therefore its commercial viability. Twenty-three heads from sub-adult (12-14 months) emus were used to provide a definitive description of the oropharynx and proximal oesophagus. Besides supplying baseline morphological data of veterinary importance, this study also underlines the functional importance of this region. The mandibular and maxillary nails, and serrations on the rostral mandibular tomia, provide the emu with a formidable combination of gripping, tearing and pecking power. The folded oropharyngeal floor allows distention of the dorso-ventrally flattened cavity during eating and drinking. The laryngeal mound performs both respiratory and digestive functions, whereas the distensible proximal oesophagus supports the particular feeding method employed by ratites.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Crole
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, 0110 South Africa.
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Baussart S, Korsoun L, Libourel PA, Bels V. Ballistic food transport in toucans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 311:465-74. [PMID: 19415715 DOI: 10.1002/jez.542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The basic mechanism of food transport in tetrapods is lingual-based. Neognathous birds use this mechanism for exploiting a large diversity of food resources, whereas paleognathous birds use cranioinertial mechanism with or without tongue involvement. Food transport in two neognathous species of toucans (Ramphastos toco and R. vitellinus) is defined as ballistic transport mechanism. Only one transport cycle is used for moving the food from the tip of the beak to the pharynx. The food is projected between jaws with similar initial velocity in both species. At the time of release, the angle between trajectory of food position and horizontal is higher in R. vitellinus with a shorter beak than in R. toco. The tongue never makes contact with the food nor is it used to expand the buccal cavity. Tongue movement is associated with throat expansion, permitting the food to reach the entrance of the esophagus at the end of the ballistic trajectory. Selection of large food items in the diet may explain the evolutionary trend of using ballistic transport in the feeding behavior of toucans, which plays a key role in ecology of tropical forest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Baussart
- UMR7179, Department "Ecologie et Gestion de la Biodiversité", Museum of Natural History, Paris, France.
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Korzun LP, Érard C, Gasc JP, Dzerzhinsky FJ. Adaptation of seedsnipes (Aves, Charadriiformes, Thinocoridae) to browsing: a study of their feeding apparatus. ZOOSYSTEMA 2009. [DOI: 10.5252/z2009n2a7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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45
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MAXWELL ERINE. Comparative ossification and development of the skull in palaeognathous birds (Aves: Palaeognathae). Zool J Linn Soc 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1096-3642.2009.00480.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Estrella SM, Masero JA. The use of distal rhynchokinesis by birds feeding in water. J Exp Biol 2007; 210:3757-62. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.007690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
The use of distal rhynchokinesis, which consists of the movement of the distal part of the upper jaw with respect to the cranium, is well documented in long-billed shorebirds (Scolopacidae), commonly being associated with the deep probing feeding method. However, the functional and evolutionary significance of distal rhynchokinesis and other cranial kinesis is unclear. We report for the first time the use and occurrence of distal rhynchokinesis in wild long-billed shorebirds feeding on small prey items suspended in water. We tested whether prey size in captive dunlins Calidris alpinainfluences the occurrence of distal rhynchokinesis during feeding and also whether its use affects foraging efficiency. We found that wild dunlin, curlew sandpiper Calidris ferruginea, sanderling Calidris alba and little stint Calidris minuta commonly use distal rhynchokinesis to strike, capture and transport small prey items. Prey size influenced the occurrence of distal rhynchokinesis during the transport phase, with this type of cranial kinesis being more frequently used with larger prey. The rhynchokinesis protraction angle (a measure of bill tip elevation) during prey strike and transport was affected by prey size, and bill gape was modulated through the use of distal rhynchokinesis in relation to prey size. Finally,the use of distal rhynchokinesis throughout intra-oral prey transport was related to shorter transport times, which improved foraging efficiency. We conclude that distal rhynchokinesis is a mechanism that could contribute to the flexible feeding behaviour of long-distance migratory shorebirds,enhancing small prey profitability and so improving foraging efficiency, and may have played a role in the evolutionary radiation of Scolopacidae(Charadrii).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sora M. Estrella
- Centro Andaluz de Ciencias y Tecnologías Marinas, Universidad de Cádiz, E-11510, Puerto Real, Spain
| | - José A. Masero
- Grupo de Investigación en Conservación, Área de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, E-06071,Badajoz, Spain
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47
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Abstract
SUMMARY
Cranial kinesis in birds is induced by muscles located caudal on the cranium. These forces are transferred onto the moveable parts of the skull via the Pterygoid–Palatinum Complex (PPC). This bony structure therefore plays an essential role in cranial kinesis. In palaeognathous birds the morphology of the PPC is remarkably different from that of neognathous birds and is thought to be related to the specific type of cranial kinesis in palaeognaths known as central rhynchokinesis. We determined whether clear bending zones as found in neognaths are present in the upper bill of paleognaths, and measured bending forces opposing elevation of the upper bill. A static force model was used to calculate the opening forces that can be produced by some of the palaeognathous species. We found that no clear bending zones are present in the upper bill, and bending is expected to occur over the whole length of the upper bill. Muscle forces are more than sufficient to overcome bending forces and to elevate the upper bill. The resistance against bending by the bony elements alone is very low, which might indicate that bending of bony elements can occur during food handling when muscles are not used to stabilise the upper bill. Model calculations suggest that the large processi basipterygoidei play a role in stabilizing the skull elements, when birds have to resist external opening forces on the upper bill as might occur during tearing leafs from plants. We conclude that the specific morphology of the palaeognathous upper bill and PPC are not designed for active cranial kinesis, but are adapted to resist external forces that might cause unwanted elevation of the upper bill during feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander W S Gussekloo
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Evolutionary Morphology, Leiden University, Kaiserstraat 63, NL-2311 GP Leiden, The Netherlands.
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