Ornithischian Dinosaurs: Thyreophorans

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to the evolution and characteristics of Theropod dinosaurs, focusing on Thyreophorans.

Thyreophorans

A group of armored dinosaurs known for their defensive adaptations, including scutes and clubs.

Scutes

Bony external plates found in some reptiles and dinosaurs, formed in the dermis, often covering the body.

Predentary

A scoop-like element at the front of the lower jaw present in all ornithischians, aiding in vegetation processing.

Diastem

A gap between teeth that allows for more effective food manipulation in herbivorous dinosaurs.

Chewing Adaptations

Specialized dental features in ornithischians for processing vegetation, including chewing teeth, a diastem, and dental batteries.

Thagomizer

The tail end of Stegosaurs equipped with paired spikes, used primarily for defense.

Ankylosaurs

A subgroup of thyreophorans characterized by heavily armored bodies and often possessing tail clubs.

Defensive Adaptations

Physical characteristics that help organisms avoid predation, which can be active (movement-based) or passive (structural).

Evolution of Thyreophorans

The process through which thyreophorans developed unique defensive structures and adaptations over time.

Osteoderm

A bony plate forming part of the dermal armor in some reptiles and dinosaur groups, like ankylosaurs.