A posterior projection from proximal rib segments. Offers attachment sites for respiratory and shoulder muscles as well as adding structural support to the trunk skeleton[Kardong 2012]. [ PHENOSCAPE:ad https://github.com/obophenotype/uberon/issues/96 https://www.worldcat.org/search?q=bn%3A0073040584 ]
Term information
WP: Although bony uncinate processes are unique to birds, cartilaginous uncinate processes are present in crocodiles. The uncinate process has also been reported in Sphenodon, Caudipteryx, oviraptorids, Confuciusornis and Chaoyangia however it does not occur in Archaeopteryx
Posteriorly directed process (occasionally directed anteriorly) usually associated with the rib (sometimes with the transverse process) of the third vertebra; they provide the origin of the mm serratus superior, medius, and inferior.[AAO]