What is pygostyle bone?

noun Ornithology. the bone at the posterior end of the spinal column in birds, formed by the fusion of several caudal vertebrae.

What is synsacrum and pygostyle?

The synsacrum is formed by the fusion of lower thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and caudal vertebrae. The terminal caudal vertebrae fuse to form the pygostyle, and cranial thoracic vertebrae fuse to form the notarium.

Where is the pygostyle found?

The pygostyle is the main component of the uropygium, a structure colloquially known as the bishop’s nose, parson’s nose, pope’s nose, or sultan’s nose. This is the fleshy protuberance visible at the posterior end of a bird (most commonly a chicken or turkey) that has been dressed for cooking.

Do humans have a pygostyle?

At the base of a bird’s spine several vertebrae are fused to form a bone called the pygostyle which humans do not possess. The pygostyle forms a strong structure for the attachment of muscles and tail feathers which are critical to take off and landing.

How did pygostyle evolve?

Abstract. A particularly critical event in avian evolution was the transition from long- to short-tailed birds. Primitive bird tails underwent significant alteration, most notably reduction of the number of caudal vertebrae and fusion of the distal caudal vertebrae into an ossified pygostyle.

Why is it called Parsons Nose?

The term “parson’s nose” comes from the idea of an arrogant English parson having “his nose in the air” like a chicken’s rear. If you’re wondering, it’s the butt of every joke. A parson’s nose is the triangular stub where tailfeathers grow on poultry.

What is the meaning of synsacrum?

Definition of synsacrum : a solidly fused series of vertebrae in the pelvic region in birds, dinosaurs, and pterosaurs comprising usually the last rib-bearing or thoracic vertebra, the two sacral vertebrae, and a varying number of caudal vertebrae — compare sacrum.

Where is the synsacrum?

Depending on the species, there may be consolidation of a series of cranial vertebrae, termed the notarium, or fusion of a series of caudal vertebrae, termed the synsacrum, which is a fusiform structure located on the underside of the pelvis.

What is the pope’s nose?

The scientific term for the pope’s nose is the uropygium. This is the part that holds the tail feathers. It also includes the uropygial gland, also known as the preen gland or oil gland.

Why did birds lose their tails?

Theropod dinosaurs, the ancestor of birds, walked with their legs vertical using their tail for balance. As their descendents evolved to fly, their heavy tails became a liability and shrank to a stub.

Do you cut off the Parsons Nose?

Culinary use Heston Blumenthal in common with many cooks, specifies that the parsons nose should always be removed before cooking as it is likely to make the dish greasy or even bitter. The parson’s nose should be removed when the bird is being dressed (trimmed and prepared for cooking).

Which bones form synsacrum?

The synsacrum is formed by the fusion of the most posterior (seventh) thoracic, the five lumbar, the two sacral and the five most anterior of the caudal vertebrae (Plate 207).