Gross Anatomical Studies on the Sternum and Ribs of White-Rumped Vultures (Gyps bengalensis)

Abstract

The sternum of white-rumped vultures was broad, large, pneumatic and rectangular in shape. The
sternal crest was triangular. The straight cranial border of the sternum presented a long, deep groove to
receive the distal end of the coracoid bone. The sternal spine was thick and prismatic and arose from the ventral
edge of cranial border alone. The cranio-lateral process was short and thin. The lateral borders presented five
articular cylinders for second to sixth sternal ribs and pneumatic foramina. The dorsal surface of the sternum
was highly concave and had pneumatic foramina. The caudo-lateral process joined the caudal narrow part of
the sternum and enclosed a large oval foramen. The processus thoracicus was absent. The caudal border
presented a triangular projection and was completely closed without notches.