A problematic early tetrapod from the Mississippian of Nevada
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Abstract
We report here the discovery of a new taxon of Paleozoic tetrapod from the Late Mississippian of Nevada (330–340 Ma). It has a unique vertebral column with principal centra having vertical anterior and posterior faces, ventrally incomplete accessory centra located antero-dorsally in each centrum, and enlarged presacral/sacral vertebrae. The head and pectoral girdle were not preserved but the large femur, robust pelvic girdle and enlarged sacral vertebrae possibly indicate a terrestrial mode of life. This new form significantly extends the western geographic range of known Mississippian tetrapods. It presents a mosaic of primitive and derived features, indicating that continued revision of traditional accounts of vertebral homology and the early diversifications of Paleozoic tetrapods will be necessary.
Suggested Citation
Thomson, K., Shubin, N., Poole, F.G., 1998, A problematic early tetrapod from the Mississippian of Nevada: Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, v. 18, no. 2, p. 315-320, https://doi.org/10.1080/02724634.1998.10011059.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | A problematic early tetrapod from the Mississippian of Nevada |
| Series title | Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology |
| DOI | 10.1080/02724634.1998.10011059 |
| Volume | 18 |
| Issue | 2 |
| Year Published | 1998 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Taylor & Francis |
| Description | 6 p. |
| First page | 315 |
| Last page | 320 |