[Comparative histology, histochemistry and innervation of striated muscle fibers of the greater pectoralis muscle and supracoracoid muscle in birds]

Abstract

The morphology of the pectoralis major muscle and the supracoracoideus muscle was compared in three Galliformes and five Passeriformes, in relation to partial behavioral characteristics. In all species, two fibres types are observed. The frequencies of these fibres are different, especially between Galliformes and Passeriformes, but also between Coturnix and other Galliformes. All fibres show phasic innervation. A relation of the extent between synaptic gutters and muscle activity is suggested.