LABYRINTHODON Meaning and
Definition
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Labyrinthodon is an extinct genus of amphibian that lived during the early Permian to the early Triassic period. The term "Labyrinthodon" is derived from the Greek words "labyrinthos," meaning maze, and "odon," meaning tooth. The name refers to the intricate, labyrinthine structure of their teeth, which are characterized by numerous enamel folds and ridges.
Members of the Labyrinthodon genus were classified as temnospondyls, which were a diverse group of early amphibians. They were typically large-bodied and had a crocodile-like appearance. Labyrinthodon had a robust skull with large eye sockets and strong jaws, suggesting a predatory lifestyle. They possessed four sturdy limbs with five-fingered forelimbs, which were likely used for locomotion both on land and in water.
One of the notable characteristics of Labyrinthodon was its dual lifestyle. They had adaptations for both terrestrial and aquatic environments, indicating that they were likely semi-aquatic. Their fossils have been found in Europe, North America, and South Africa, suggesting a wide distribution during the late Paleozoic era.
Labyrinthodon played a significant role in the early stages of amphibian evolution, with their fossils providing valuable information about the transition from fully aquatic to semi-aquatic or terrestrial lifestyles. They are considered an important group in understanding the evolutionary history of tetrapods, as they represent an evolutionary link between fish and modern amphibians.
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In geol., a batrachian reptile of the New Red Sandstone.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LABYRINTHODON
- kabyrinthodon
- pabyrinthodon
- oabyrinthodon
- lzbyrinthodon
- lsbyrinthodon
- lwbyrinthodon
- lqbyrinthodon
- lavyrinthodon
- lanyrinthodon
- lahyrinthodon
- lagyrinthodon
- labtrinthodon
- labgrinthodon
- labhrinthodon
- laburinthodon
- lab7rinthodon
- lab6rinthodon
- labyeinthodon
- labydinthodon
Etymology of LABYRINTHODON
The word "Labyrinthodon" comes from Ancient Greek, and its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. "Labýrinthos" (λαβύρινθος): This is the Greek word for "labyrinth", which refers to a complex and confusing structure with intricate passages. In ancient mythology, the Labyrinth was a maze-like construction built by Daedalus for King Minos of Crete to imprison the Minotaur.
2. "Odon" (ὀδών): This is the Greek word for "tooth". It comes from the larger word "odontós" (ὀδόντος), which specifically denotes a tooth as a body part.
Therefore, when combined, "Labyrinthodon" literally means "labyrinth tooth" or "tooth of the labyrinth".
