Dinosaurian Synapomorphies Found In Archaeopteryx


From: Dinogeorge@aol.com

Here are 20 to get you started (characters shared with/retained from dromaeosaurids and other related theropods and dinosaurs):

  1. Tridactyl manus with manual digits IV, V lost
  2. Manual digit I robust
  3. Manual digit II longest in hand
  4. Manual digit III slender, with phalanges 3, 4 both short
  5. Semilunate carpal
  6. V-shaped furcula present
  7. Straplike scapula
  8. Functionally tridactyl pes with retroverted hallux
  9. Advanced mesotarsal ankle
  10. Splintlike metatarsal V
  11. Ascending process on astragalus
  12. Slender fibula
  13. Femur with orthogonally inturned head
  14. Perforate acetabulum
  15. Pelvis moderately opisthopubic
  16. Pubis long, rodlike with distal expansion
  17. Bladelike ilium
  18. Sacrum with at least 5 vertebrae (A. has six)
  19. Long tail, distally stiffened
  20. Jaws with teeth

There are dozens more--I've scarcely touched the skull in this list. But you get the idea, yes?


Copyright © 1996 Respective authors. The above were public posts to the dinosaur mailing list.
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Revised Jan. 29, 1996