Ratite refers to a category or group of flightless birds characterized by a flat or keel-less breastbone or sternum. Derived from the Latin word "ratis," meaning raft or float, ratite birds possess a unique anatomical feature that distinguishes them from other avian species. This term serves as a taxonomic classification for several large flightless birds including ostriches, emus, rheas, cassowaries, and kiwis.
These birds are characterized by their lack of a breastbone ridge, known as a keel, which is necessary for the attachment of flight muscles in birds capable of sustained flight. Without this anchoring structure, ratite birds are unable to fly like their avian counterparts, instead relying on their powerful legs to move about on the ground.
Ratites have been found in a variety of habitats, ranging from grasslands and forests to desert areas, indicating their adaptability to different environments. They typically exhibit a tall and elongated stature, long necks, and strong legs, enabling them to actively run at high speeds for escaping predators or hunting prey. Some ratite species, like ostriches, possess large wings despite being flightless. These wings, however, primarily serve purposes other than flight, such as cooling, display, or balance during rapid changes in direction.
In addition to their unique anatomical features, ratites also share certain physiological characteristics. For instance, they all reproduce through internal fertilization and lay comparatively large eggs, making their reproductive biology distinct from most other avian species.
Overall, ratite is a term used to denote a specific group of flightless birds that are identifiable by their keel-less breastbone and certain common characteristics, adapting to diverse environments while exhibiting distinctive biological traits.
