Avian and ratite medullary bone

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In summary, bird medullary bone is a secondary tissue that provides calcium for eggshell production and has no biomechanical function. It is brittle and easily separated from its originating layer, but the thin basal layer remains attached to the cortex. It is unclear if this layer has any mechanical strength or if it will eventually separate from the cortical bone. There is speculation that the medullary bone will eventually be completely removed from the cortical bone wall.
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Munyit
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Bird medullary bone is described as a secondary bone tissue that provided calcium for producing eggshell, and have no biomechanical function. Bird medullary tissue is a very brittle and fragile type of bone that the spicules of medullary bone easily separated from the originating layer, but why the thin basal layer remains attached to the cortex? Did the thin basal layer have any mechanical strength or will it eventually completely separated from cortical bone after sometime? I think the medullary bone will be totally removed from the bone marrow.
 
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Munyit said:
I think the medullary bone will be totally removed from the bone marrow.

Sorry I mean the medullary bone will be totally removed from the cortical bone wall.
 

What is avian and ratite medullary bone?

Avian and ratite medullary bone is a specialized type of bone found in birds and ratites (flightless birds) that serves as a calcium reservoir for egg production. It is a spongy, lightweight bone that is rich in calcium and helps support the high demands of egg laying.

How does medullary bone differ from regular bone?

Medullary bone differs from regular bone in its structure and function. It is more porous and less dense, allowing for easier transfer of calcium. It also has a higher blood supply and is metabolically active, meaning it can quickly deposit and withdraw calcium as needed for egg production.

Why is medullary bone important for birds and ratites?

Medullary bone is important for birds and ratites because it provides a readily available source of calcium for the production of eggshells. These species have a high demand for calcium due to their frequent egg laying, and medullary bone helps them meet this demand without depleting their own skeletal stores of calcium.

Can medullary bone be found in other animals besides birds and ratites?

Medullary bone is unique to birds and ratites and is not found in other animals. However, some reptiles, such as lizards and turtles, have a similar type of bone called medullary cavities that also serve as a calcium reservoir for reproduction.

What are the implications of medullary bone for avian evolution and physiology?

The presence of medullary bone in birds and ratites suggests that these species evolved from ancestors that also had high calcium demands for reproduction. It also highlights the importance of calcium in egg production and its role in shaping the physiology of these animals. Further research on medullary bone may provide insights into the evolution of egg laying and reproductive strategies in birds and other species.

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