ScienceAugust 16, 2026

archosauromorph

AR-koh-saw-roh-morf

Definition

A member of a group of diapsid reptiles that includes the common ancestors of crocodiles, dinosaurs, birds, and their extinct relatives.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'archos' (ruler or leader) and 'sauros' (lizard), combined with the Greek 'morphe' (form or shape). It describes reptiles that belong to the lineage of the 'ruling reptiles,' or Archosauria.

In the news

The article describes Austronaga as an aquatic archosauromorph, using this term to place the creature within the broader evolutionary lineage that eventually produced modern-day crocodiles and birds.

Chinese scientists uncover ancient reptile built for life in water

Read the full article ↗

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