Archaeornithes (Noun)
Meaning
Primitive reptile-like fossil birds of the Jurassic or early Cretaceous.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- Archaeornithes are transitional forms that demonstrate the gradual evolution of modern bird characteristics from theropod dinosaurs.
- Fossil remains of archaeornithes found in Liaoning, China have shed new light on the origin of bird flight.
- These ancient birds shared many reptilian features, making archaeornithes some of the most fascinating fossil discoveries of recent decades.
- Several archaeornithes species discovered in Europe and Asia are thought to be close relatives of the early avialans, or bird-like theropods.
- Many characteristics that define archaeornithes as reptile-like, such as clawed wings and long tails, can still be seen in the fossils of the most primitive living bird groups.