Fossils strengthen the link between birds and dinosaurs
12 December 2005
by Carina
Lee
|
It has been known that birds share a common ancestry with advanced theropod dinosaurs. Theropod dinosaurs are the bipedal, carnivorous type, like T-Rex. However, new discoveries have led scientists to believe that there is still a defining link between the evolutionary lineage of birds in direct relation to their reptile ancestors. This is according to the recent analysis published in the Journal of Morphology. An example of one of the species studied is the Archaeopteryx. The Archaeopteryx is recognised as the first-known bird because it was the most dated fossil found with feathers and wings. A small, carnivorous, dinosaur-like bird, it possessed feathers, teeth, and claw-like hands &endash; a mixture of the characteristics of both a bird and a dinosaur. J. Richard Hinchliffe from the University College of Wales, along with other research scientists, examine fossil evidence that may prove a distinct relationship between birds and dinosaurs. Important anatomical structures worth noting are the hands and feet of these reptiles. There is still debate over whether or not the modern birds of today actually evolved from these theropod dinosaurs. Many tests have been conducted, observing fossils and inner structures to see if there are any resemblances. Dr A. Feduccia, who joined Hinchliffe and a team of other scientists, explains "It is now clear that the origin of birds is a much more complicated question than has been previously thought." |
 The famous Berlin Archaeopteryx |
Related Links
Original abstract from AAAS
Nature
& Science News
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