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):
- Tridactyl manus with manual digits IV, V lost
- Manual digit I robust
- Manual digit II longest in hand
- Manual digit III slender, with phalanges 3, 4 both short
- Semilunate carpal
- V-shaped furcula present
- Straplike scapula
- Functionally tridactyl pes with retroverted hallux
- Advanced mesotarsal ankle
- Splintlike metatarsal V
- Ascending process on astragalus
- Slender fibula
- Femur with orthogonally inturned head
- Perforate acetabulum
- Pelvis moderately opisthopubic
- Pubis long, rodlike with distal expansion
- Bladelike ilium
- Sacrum with at least 5 vertebrae (A. has six)
- Long tail, distally stiffened
- 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.

Revised Jan. 29, 1996