TECTOSPONDYLIC Meaning and
Definition
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Tectospondylic refers to a type of vertebral structure found in certain reptiles, particularly ancient dinosaurs. The term "tectospondylic" is derived from the Greek words "tecton" meaning "builder" and "spondylos" meaning "vertebrae," and it describes the specific arrangement and fusion of vertebrae in these animals.
In tectospondylic species, the vertebrae are tightly interlocked and fused together, forming a rigid structure. This fusion occurs between multiple adjacent vertebrae, resulting in the formation of a solid, bony plate. This morphology is evolutionarily significant as it provides increased support and stability to the spinal column.
The tectospondylic condition is commonly found in certain groups of dinosaurs, such as sauropodomorphs and some theropods. These dinosaurs had elongated necks and tails, and the tectospondylic structure allowed them to bear the weight of their massive bodies while enabling efficient movement. The fusion of the vertebrae also reduced flexibility in these regions of the spine, leading to a more coordinated and efficient locomotion.
Overall, tectospondylic refers to the specific vertebral arrangement observed in certain reptiles, characterized by the fusion of multiple adjacent vertebrae to form a solid, bony structure. This adaptation provided increased support, stability, and efficient movement in dinosaurs with elongated necks and tails.
Common Misspellings for TECTOSPONDYLIC
- rectospondylic
- fectospondylic
- gectospondylic
- yectospondylic
- 6ectospondylic
- 5ectospondylic
- twctospondylic
- tsctospondylic
- tdctospondylic
- trctospondylic
- t4ctospondylic
- t3ctospondylic
- textospondylic
- tevtospondylic
- teftospondylic
- tedtospondylic
- tecrospondylic
- tecfospondylic
- tecgospondylic
- tecyospondylic
Etymology of TECTOSPONDYLIC
The word "tectospondylic" is a combination of two root words: "tecto-" and "spondyl-".
1. "Tecto-" comes from the Greek word "tecton", which means "builder" or "carpenter". In the context of "tectospondylic", "tecto-" refers to something related to structure or construction.
2. "Spondyl-" comes from the Greek word "spondylos", which means "vertebra". It refers to the spinal column or vertebrae.
Therefore, "tectospondylic" combines these two root words to indicate something related to the structure or form of the spinal column or vertebral construction.
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