carinatae

Carinatae is a taxonomic classification within the kingdom Animalia. The term refers to a group of organisms characterized by the presence of a keel or a ridge-like structure. This morphology is most prominently observed in birds, where the sternum, or breastbone, possesses a prominent ventral keel, known as the carina. This bony projection serves as a crucial attachment point for the powerful flight muscles, enabling aerial locomotion. Not all birds possess a pronounced carina; for instance, flightless birds like ostriches and penguins have reduced or absent carinae, reflecting their evolutionary adaptations to terrestrial or aquatic environments. Beyond birds, the term carinatae may be applied in zoology to describe any anatomical feature that exhibits a keeled or ridged form, regardless of its specific function or taxonomic group. The presence of such a structure can be a significant diagnostic feature in the identification and classification of various animal species, helping to understand evolutionary relationships and functional adaptations.