Describe the special characteristic features of Aves.

Explanation

(i) Aves are commonly known as birds. The characteristic feature of Aves is the presence of feathers and the ability to fly except for flightless birds. eg. Ostrich, Kiwi.
(ii) The forelimbs are modified into wings, and the hind limbs are adapted for walking, running,swimming and perching. (iii) The skin is dry and devoid of glands except the oil gland or preen gland at the base of the tail.
(iv) The exoskeleton consists of epidermal feathers, scales, claws on legs and the horny covering on the beak.
(v) The endoskeleton is fully ossified (bony) and the long bones are hollow with air cavities (pneumatic bones).
(vi) The pectoral muscles of flight (pectoralis major and pectoralis minor) are well developed.
vii) Respiration is by compact, elastic, spongy lungs that are continuous with air sacs to supplement respiration.
(viii) The heart is four chambered.
(ix) Urinary bladder is absent.
(x) Sexes are separate with well marked sexual dimorphism. (xi) All birds are oviparous. Eggs are megalecithal and cleidoic. Fertilization is internal
(xii) eg. Corvus (Crow), Columba (Pigeon), Pavo (Peacock).