The word "carinal canal" refers to a respiratory structure found in birds, which is responsible for the exchange of air during breathing. It is often misspelled as "cardinal canal" which may cause confusion. The correct spelling is pronounced as /ˈkærɪnəl kəˈnæl/. The first syllable is stressed, and the vowel sound is pronounced as "a" in "car". The second syllable has a reduced sound of "ə". The final syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound as well. The spelling of this word is determined by its Latin origin, where it is spelled "carina" and "canalis".
The term "carinal canal" refers to a specific anatomical structure found in birds and some reptiles. The carinal canal is essentially a groove or depression that runs along the central region of the sternum or breastbone, where it divides the sternum into two halves. It is named after the carina, which is the keel-like projection found on the ventral surface of the sternum. This structure is responsible for providing a surface for the attachment of the powerful flight muscles necessary for active wing movement.
The carinal canal is typically more prominent in birds, as it serves as a slot through which the keeled sternum can extend. This allows for a more efficient transfer of forces, enabling strong flight muscles to generate the necessary lift and propulsion during flight. In addition to its role in enabling flight, the carinal canal also helps to strengthen the sternum, reducing the risk of fractures and injuries.
The carinal canal is an important anatomical feature to consider in avian anatomy and bird classification. Its presence and morphology can vary across different bird species, contributing to their unique flying capabilities. Its structure and function also highlight the remarkable adaptations that birds have evolved to meet the demands of flight. Studying and understanding the carinal canal can provide valuable insights into the biomechanics and biology of avian flight.
In botany, an air-channel associated with a vascular bundle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "carinal canal" is a combination of two separate terms: "carina" and "canal".
The word "carina" is derived from the Latin word "carina", which means "keel" or "ridge". In anatomy, the carina refers to the ridge-like structure found in the trachea, where it bifurcates into the left and right bronchi. The carina acts as a landmark for tracheal intubation and is an important anatomical feature in the respiratory system.
The word "canal" comes from the Latin word "canalis", meaning "pipe" or "channel". In general, a canal refers to a narrow passage or waterway. In this context, the "carinal canal" specifically refers to the space or passage surrounding the carina in the trachea where the airflow is directed into the left and right bronchi.