Os opticus

The os opticus, also known as os nervi optici or Gemminger's ossicle, is a bone found within the posterior sclera of the eye in many, but not all, species of birds. It is typically a ring- or horseshoe-shaped bone that encircles the optic nerve as it passes through the back of the eyeball. Its function is thought to be providing rigidity to the eye and supporting the optic nerve, which may be particularly important for birds that peck or require rapid visual accommodation. It was discovered by Max Gemminger in 1852.

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