Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Dinosaur of the Month-Dimorphodon marconyx

The dinosaur for this month is Dimorphodon marconyx.
This dinosaur was first discovered in 1828 by Mary Anning. The name Dimorphodon refers to ‘two-form tooth’ while the species name species macronyx refers to the large claws on the forelimbs. This particular dinosaur had a large head and pointed teeth.  Dimorphodon marconyz is found primarily in Lyme Regis, Dorset, UK in which the site dates back to Lower Jurassic Period - 200 million years ago. Most of the fossils found at this site are from marine reptiles of the Lower Jurassic Period.

General Biology
Due to the similarity to the dinosaurs that are pterosaurs scientist presume that the Dimorphodon marconyx laid eggs and also from fossil found in Germany of psteosaurs indicate that theses species had fast development in which they could fly away and take care of themselves. This aspect makes them unique because birds born today are helpless state for long period of time in comparison.

This species had the ability to walk on all fours. Also the cranium was developed in areas of spatial awareness and balance indicating the possibility of flight.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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