A Short-Armed Troodontid Dinosaur from Inner Mongolia
Author Information
Author(s): Xu Xing, Tan Qingwei, Sullivan Corwin, Han Fenglu, Xiao Dong
Primary Institution: Key Laboratory of Evolutionary Systematics of Vertebrates, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
Hypothesis
What does the discovery of Linhevenator tani reveal about troodontid evolution?
Conclusion
The discovery of Linhevenator indicates a complex pattern of character evolution within the Troodontidae.
Supporting Evidence
- Linhevenator tani has a unique combination of primitive and derived features.
- It suggests that derived troodontids evolved specialized foot structures independently.
- The study provides new insights into the evolutionary history of Troodontidae.
Takeaway
Scientists found a new dinosaur called Linhevenator that helps us understand how some dinosaurs evolved to have shorter arms and special feet.
Methodology
The study involved the collection and analysis of a partial skeleton of Linhevenator tani from the Upper Cretaceous Wulansuhai Formation.
Limitations
The specimen is not complete, which may limit the understanding of its full anatomy.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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