maniraptoriform
muh-NEER-ap-TOR-ih-form
Definition
Refers to a group of theropod dinosaurs that includes maniraptorans and their close relatives, characterized by specific skeletal traits and often associated with the lineage leading to birds.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'manus' (hand) and 'raptor' (plunderer or thief), combined with the Latin 'forma' (shape). It was coined by paleontologists to describe the distinctive, bird-like skeletal structure of these dinosaurs.
In the news
The article uses the term to categorize specific theropod dinosaurs that developed highly specialized dietary and digestive adaptations. It helps clarify the evolutionary lineage of these creatures as they evolved distinct, efficient ways to process food.
Dinosaurs evolved very strange and unique strategies for digesting food and absorbing nutrients
Read the full article ↗Earth.com