Anatomy and physiology of the gastro-intestinal tract and growth curves of the ostrich (Struthio camelus)

Abstract

The ostrich is an important animal in many livestock industries and in the developing world. The digestive system of the ostrich differs considerably from that of non-ruminant animals or poultry. The genetic potential of an ostrich can be described by its characteristic growth curve. This present paper presents an account of the rearing, anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract, and growth curves of this bird.