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The range of number of chromosomes in ratites is 64-82. The Ostrich has a count of 80, as well as the Greater Rhea, and the Emu has a count of 82, while Kiwis, being the smallest by far, have only 64 chromosomes. Studies on the order ratitae discovered that the chromosomes are very similar between the birds except for a few slight alterations. The larger organisms such as the Ostrich and Rhea have much larger chromosomes than the Emu and the Kiwi. All of the species in the order have a very similar banding pattern, which is different from other species that aren't ratites. This shows the relatedness between all Struthioniformes. The chromosomal analysis is evidence of evolution for a few reasons. It shows the relatedness between the species and gives more insight to the fact that they might share a common ancestor, the moa. If they are similar in chromosomal structure it is proof that they belong in the same taxonomic group and have evolved over time into different species.