A keel is absent in

Correct option is A

The correct answer is option (a) Ostrich

Explanation

• The keel is a prominent structure found on the breastbone (sternum) of most flying birds, providing a surface for the attachment of flight muscles.

• Ostriches, being flightless birds, do not have a keel. This is because they do not require the large breast muscles necessary for flight.

• In contrast, birds like ducks, chickens, and peacocks have a keel, as they possess the body structure necessary for flight (though chickens are not strong fliers).

Information Booster

• The absence of a keel in flightless birds like ostriches is a key anatomical difference.

• Keels are typically seen in flying birds to support the strong flight muscles necessary for flight.

• Flightless birds like ostriches and emus have adapted to running and do not require the keel structure for flight.

Additional Knowledge

• Ostrich: The world’s largest and heaviest bird, capable of running at high speeds but incapable of flight.

• Duck, Chicken, and Peacock: These birds have a keel because they are capable of flight or have evolved to retain the potential for short flights.