Aves 3D

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Sternum (Breast Bone) of the Anhinga Anhinga anhinga (MCZ 343615)

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Phylogenic Position
Aves - Neognathae - Pelecaniformes - Anhingidae - Anhinga - Anhinga anhinga
Species Description
The Snakebird (or Darter) is a large water bird found in the marshes and swamps of South America. “Anhinga” is from the Brazilian Tupi language, and means devil bird or snake bird; “snake bird” is derived from the bird’s method of swimming, where only the head and neck are above the water. The Snakebird’s backset legs make for awkward movements on land, but it is an accomplished foot-propelled diver. It is a piscivore, catching its prey with a long, sharp, serrated bill. However, unlike many diving birds, it is not a pursuit diver; instead, it swims slowly through the water, stalking prey. It is able to stay underwater because the Snakebird is not able to waterproof its feathers (like ducks). This lack of buoyancy aids in swimming, but means that the feathers get waterlogged; after fishing, the Snakebird must perch on land with wings spread, so that the feathers can dry out. Because of this need for copious amounts of sunshine, the Snakebird’s range is limited.
Specimen Information
Species	Anhinga anhinga (Anhinga)
Element	Sternum (Breast Bone)
Specimen Number	MCZ 343615
Sex
Location
Geological Age	Recent
Technical Information
Scanner	Konica Minolta Range7
Resolution	40 µm
Number of Data Points	137511
Number of Data Polygons	274946
Date Scanned	July 06, 2008
Scan Technician	Michael Krzyzak
Edited By	Megan Cooper
Photographs
View All 2 Images
Download Digital Model	Size
STL File Not Publicly Available	13.7 MB
Other Anhinga anhinga (Anhinga) Elements
Specimen	Element
MCZ 343615	Right Tarsometatarsus (Right Fused Element Consisting of Ankle and Middle Foot Bones)
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