NORMANNOGNATHUS WELLNHOFERI Meaning and
Definition
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Normannognathus wellnhoferi is a species of prehistoric pterosaur that lived during the Late Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago. It belongs to the family Rhamphorhynchidae, which is characterized by its long-tailed and toothed members.
Normannognathus wellnhoferi is known from several well-preserved fossils found in Solnhofen Limestone, a famous fossil site in Bavaria, Germany. With a wingspan of about 60 centimeters, it was a relatively small pterosaur compared to some of its contemporaries.
This species is distinguishable by its unique combination of anatomical features. It had a slender and elongated snout, with numerous small and sharp teeth lining its jaws. The teeth were curved and pointed, indicating that this pterosaur was likely carnivorous or piscivorous, feeding on small vertebrates or fish.
Normannognathus wellnhoferi also possessed wings that were formed by a membrane of skin stretched between its elongated fourth finger and its hind limbs. Its wings allowed for powered flight, suggesting that it was an active and agile flyer. It is believed to have spent most of its time in the air, hunting for prey and evading potential predators.
The discovery and study of Normannognathus wellnhoferi have contributed significantly to our understanding of pterosaur evolution and diversity during the Late Jurassic period. Its unique characteristics and well-preserved fossil remains have provided valuable insights into the physical adaptations and ecological roles of these ancient flying reptiles.
Etymology of NORMANNOGNATHUS WELLNHOFERI
The word "Normannognathus wellnhoferi" is a scientific name given to a species of pterosaur, specifically a type of pterodactyloid. Let's break down the etymology of this name:
1. Normannognathus: The genus name "Normannognathus" is derived from a combination of two words - "Normanno-" and "-gnathus".
- "Normanno-" honors Normann B. Sohner, a German fossil collector who discovered the first fossil material of this pterosaur in 1982.
- "-gnathus" comes from the Greek word "gnathos", meaning "jaw". This part of the name refers to the jaw structure of the pterosaur.
