Madártestet

Madártestet is a Hungarian term that translates to "bird body" and is used in zoological and educational contexts to refer to the body plan shared by birds. It encompasses both external morphology and internal anatomy that support flight, thermoregulation, and other life functions.

External morphology includes a compact body with a relatively short neck and a large chest housing the powerful pectoral muscles. The forelimbs are modified into wings, while the hind limbs vary in length and structure to suit different activities. Plumage provides insulation, camouflage, and signaling. The beak replaces teeth, and the skeleton is lightweight and often highly reinforced for strength. In many flying species the sternum bears a keel (carina) for muscle attachment. Many bones are pneumatised (air-filled) to reduce weight.

Internal anatomy features adaptations for high metabolic demand. The respiratory system includes lungs and air sacs, enabling efficient, unidirectional airflow. The circulatory system supports sustained activity with a relatively large heart and high blood oxygen capacity. The digestive system is adapted for rapid processing, and many species have specialized features such as a crop or gizzard to aid food processing.

Variation across birds reflects ecological diversity. Wading birds may have long legs for wading, while seabirds are often streamlined and equipped with salt glands. Flightless birds tend to have heavier bodies and different wing and leg configurations. Reproduction typically involves egg laying with parental care through incubation and fledging.

Madártestet thus describes the common anatomical framework that enables the wide range of lifestyles seen in modern birds.