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Syrinx - Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 12:20, 29 July 2008
, 12:20, 29 July 2008no edit summary
==Introduction==
==Introduction==
Vocalisation is an important evolutionary ability of birds. The extend of song varies in different avian species from complex pitches, patterns and rhythms in song birds to the amusing squawk of penguins. Birds lack vocal folds and so sound is produced in the syrinx.
Vocalisation is an important evolutionary ability of birds. The extend of song varies in different avian species from complex pitches, patterns and rhythms in songbirds to the amusing squawk of penguins. Birds lack vocal folds and so sound is produced in the syrinx.
[[Image:Syrinx Anatomy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Anatomy of the Syrinx - Copyright RVC]]
[[Image:Syrinx Anatomy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Anatomy of the Syrinx - Copyright RVC]]
*Composed of ossified cartilages, vibrating membranes and muscles
*Composed of ossified cartilages, vibrating membranes and muscles
*Surrounded by an air sac
==Function==
==Function==
*Each half of the syrinx can function independently allowing 2 different notes to be produced at the same time
*Each half of the syrinx can function independently allowing 2 different notes to be produced at the same time
==Species Differences==
==Species Differences==
*Songbirds have a complex set of syringeal muscles
*Songbirds have a complex set of syringeal muscles
*Sexual dimorphisms occurs in songbirds, with the males of the species usually producing a more complex birdsong
*Parrots have a thick [[Oral Cavity - Tongue - Anatomy & Physiology|tongue]] which allows them to make sounds similar to humans
*Parrots have a thick [[Oral Cavity - Tongue - Anatomy & Physiology|tongue]] which allows them to make sounds similar to humans
**Sound travels from the syrinx and is modified in the throat, [[Oral Cavity - Tongue - Anatomy & Physiology|tongue]] and mouth
**Sound travels from the syrinx and is modified in the throat, [[Oral Cavity - Tongue - Anatomy & Physiology|tongue]] and mouth