GONIOPHOLIS Meaning and
Definition
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Goniopholis is a genus of extinct crocodilian reptiles that lived during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 112 to 100 million years ago. It belongs to the family Goniopholididae, which is a group of small to medium-sized crocodyliforms. The name "Goniopholis" is derived from Greek words, with "gonio" meaning "angle" and "pholis" meaning "scale," referring to the distinctive angular scales on its body.
These reptiles were semi-aquatic predators that inhabited freshwater ecosystems. Goniopholis had a long, slender snout lined with sharp, pointed teeth, which it used to seize fish and other small aquatic prey. They possessed a flattened body shape and strong limbs with clawed feet for maneuvering on land and in water.
Goniopholis had a typical crocodilian body plan, characterized by a robust tail and a protective armor of bony scutes. Unlike modern crocodiles, Goniopholis lacked the ability to regulate body temperature, so they depended on external sources of warmth, such as basking in the sun or seeking shelter in warmer environments.
Fossils of Goniopholis have been found in Europe, North Africa, and North America, suggesting a wide distribution during the Cretaceous period. Like other members of the Goniopholididae family, Goniopholis likely coexisted with various other prehistoric creatures, including dinosaurs, turtles, and other crocodyliforms.
The study of Goniopholis and other ancient crocodilians provides valuable insights into the evolution and diversity of these reptiles, contributing to our understanding of prehistoric ecosystems and the natural history of this group.
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In geol., a genus of crocodilians, so called from the angular shape of their scutes.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GONIOPHOLIS
- foniopholis
- voniopholis
- boniopholis
- honiopholis
- yoniopholis
- toniopholis
- giniopholis
- gkniopholis
- glniopholis
- gpniopholis
- g0niopholis
- g9niopholis
- gobiopholis
- gomiopholis
- gojiopholis
- gohiopholis
- gonuopholis
- gonjopholis
- gonkopholis
- gonoopholis
Etymology of GONIOPHOLIS
The word "goniopholis" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "gonia" (γωνία), meaning "angle" or "corner", and "pholis" (φολίς), meaning "scale". The term was coined by the British paleontologist Richard Owen in 1878 to name a genus of crocodile-like reptiles. The name "goniopholis" refers to the distinct arrangement of the scales on the back of these prehistoric creatures, forming distinctive angles or corners.
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