Avian Respiratory System Flashcards
1
Q
Describe the avian lungs
A
Small, firmly attached to the thorax, and minimally moveable
2
Q
What are the function of air sacs in birds?
A
- Store air
- Promote complete filling of the passive lungs
ALL CONNECT WITH SECONDARY BRONCHI
3
Q
What adaptations do the ribs have to facilitate respiration?
A
The last five ribs have uncinate processes, which project caudally to the next rib
- this facilitates chest expansion/compression during inspiration/expiration
- chest MUST expand in order to bring air in
4
Q
Birds do not have a ____
A
Diaphragm - which in mammals, is used in conjunction with the ribs to expand the thoracic cavity
