STRATESAURUS TAYLORI Meaning and
Definition
-
Stratesaurus taylori is a species of carnivorous dinosaur that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 70 million years ago. It is classified under the family Dromaeosauridae, a group of small to medium-sized theropod dinosaurs known for their sharp, curved claws and bird-like features.
The name "Stratesaurus taylori" originates from the Greek word "stratos," meaning army, and "sauros," meaning lizard, combined with the species name given in honor of the paleontologist, Dr. Gregory Taylor, who contributed significantly to the study and understanding of this species.
This dinosaur is estimated to have measured around 6-8 feet in length, with a slender, lightweight body and an estimated weight of about 15-20 kilograms. It possessed long, slender hind limbs, well-suited for speed and agility, and short forelimbs with sharp claws. It likely had a long, stiff tail that helped it maintain balance while running, making it an efficient predator.
Based on fossil evidence, Stratesaurus taylori had a combination of bird-like and reptilian characteristics. It had a light build, a relatively large brain, a specialized joint in its skull that allowed the upper jaw to move independently, and eyes positioned on the sides of its head, suggesting it had good binocular vision. These features indicate that it was a highly agile and intelligent predator, possibly capable of hunting in groups.
Stratesaurus taylori's fossils have been discovered in various locations, including North America, Europe, and Asia, providing valuable insights into the diversity and distribution of dromaeosaurid dinosaurs during the Late Cretaceous period.
Etymology of STRATESAURUS TAYLORI
The word "Stratesaurus taylori" is formed by combining two parts: "Stratesaurus" and "taylori".
1. "Stratesaurus" is derived from Latin and Greek roots. The first part, "strato", is from the Latin word "stratum", which means "layer" or "level". The second part, "saurus", comes from the Greek word "sauros", meaning "lizard" or "reptile". Therefore, "Stratesaurus" can be roughly translated as "layered lizard" or "level reptile".
2. "Taylori" is a Latinized form of a personal name, likely derived from a person's surname. It is used to honor or commemorate an individual, presumably someone named Taylor that made a significant contribution to the study or discovery of Stratesaurus.
