archaeopteryx lithographica
Học thuậtThân thiện
A paleontologist carefully examines the fossil of Archaeopteryx lithographica.
Definition
Noun: * Archaeopteryx lithographica: An extinct, primitive, toothed bird from the Jurassic period, characterized by a long feathered tail and hollow bones. It is widely regarded as the most primitive known bird, representing a transitional form between reptiles and birds.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The fossil of Archaeopteryx lithographica provides crucial evidence for the evolutionary link between dinosaurs and birds.
- Scientists study Archaeopteryx lithographica to understand the development of flight in early avian species.
Advanced Usage
- The term is primarily used in scientific, paleontological, and evolutionary biology contexts. It is often referred to simply as "Archaeopteryx" in general discussion, with specifying the species.
- It is frequently cited as a classic example of a "missing link" or transitional fossil in evolutionary studies.
Variants and Related Words
- Archaeopteryx (n): The genus name, commonly used to refer to this species and its close relatives.
- Urvogel (n): A German term meaning "first bird," sometimes used as a synonym for Archaeopteryx.
Synonyms
- Archaeopteryx
- Urvogel
Related Phrases and Concepts
- Transitional fossil: A fossil that exhibits traits common to both an ancestral group and its derived descendant group.
- Jurassic bird: A bird that lived during the Jurassic period.
- Feathered dinosaur: A term highlighting its reptilian characteristics alongside avian features like feathers.
A paleontologist carefully examines the fossil of Archaeopteryx lithographica.
Noun
- extinct primitive toothed bird of the Jurassic period having a long feathered tail and hollow bones; usually considered the most primitive of all birds