Carinated

Carinated refers to a characteristic or feature that is shaped like a keel or has a prominent ridge. This term is most commonly used in biology and anatomy to describe certain structures.

In ornithology, a carinated sternum, also known as a keel, is a distinctive feature of most birds. This bony projection extends outwards from the sternum (breastbone) and provides a large surface area for the attachment of flight muscles. Birds that are capable of flight typically have a well-developed carina, while flightless birds, such as penguins and ostriches, have a reduced or absent keel.

The term carinate can also be applied to other biological structures. For example, some insects have carinated antennae, meaning they possess a ridge or keel along their length. In botany, certain plant parts, like petals or leaves, may be described as carinated if they exhibit a keel-like shape. The term is generally used to denote a prominent, often sharp, longitudinal ridge on a surface.