Archosaurs (still amniotes) Flashcards
1
Q
What are characteristics of all crocodylians?
A
skin covered w/ keratin scutes over bony osteoderms
osteoderms - increased vascularization and calcium buffering
secondary palate - gular valve - for not drowning stops water entering trachea
modern nostrils at top of snout
thecodont dentition - unidirectional air flow in lung-hepatic pump
semi-erect gait
mound nesters ancestrally
2
Q
describe snout shapes of alligators, crocodiles, and gharials
A
alligator - very rounded
crocodile - rounded, longer, tapered
gharial - long and thin.
