Gross anatomical studies on the bones of leg, shank and digits of Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae)

The study was undertaken on three adult Emu birds. The tibiotarsus was the longest bone in the body and its mean length was 38 cm. The medial and lateral ridges of proximal extremity were well developed. No distinct facet for head of fibula was evident. The distal extremity consisted symmetrical trochleae caudally and condyles cranially. The fibula showed a prominent head. The body of the fibula was slender and needle like and reached distal part of the tibiotarsus. The tarsometatarsus was a single large bone and measured 35 cm in length. The proximal extremity consisted of two large concave articular areas. The distal extremity consisted three longitudinally directed trochleae and each articulated with corresponding digits viz., 2nd, 3rd and 4th. The 1st and 5th digits were absent. The number of phalanges were 3, 4 and 5 in 2nd, 3rd and 4th digits respectively. The first phalanges were larger in all three digits. The last phalanx was comma shaped, pointed and covered by a horny claw.