ANTHRAKERPETON Meaning and
Definition
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Anthrakerpeton is a genus of extinct amphibians that lived during the Carboniferous period, approximately 300 million years ago. It belongs to the family Anthracosauridae, which includes large aquatic amphibians known as "anthracosaurs." The name Anthrakerpeton is derived from the Greek words "anthrakon" meaning "coal," and "kerpeton" meaning "lizard," reflecting the fact that many fossils of this genus have been found in coal deposits.
Anthrakerpeton species typically had elongated bodies, measuring about one meter in length. They had well-developed limbs and were likely semi-aquatic, spending much of their time in freshwater environments. Their fossils have been discovered in various parts of Europe and North America, revealing a widespread distribution during the Carboniferous.
These amphibians had a combination of reptilian and amphibian features, representing an intermediate stage in the evolution of land-dwelling vertebrates. They possessed scales, indicating a partially terrestrial lifestyle, while still retaining gills to breathe underwater.
Anthrakerpeton is an important genus in understanding the evolutionary transition from aquatic to terrestrial vertebrates. Studying its fossils provides insight into the development of limbs and other adaptations related to life on land. These creatures were part of an ancient lineage that ultimately gave rise to reptiles and eventually mammals.
In conclusion, Anthrakerpeton is an extinct genus of amphibians that played a significant role in the evolutionary history of vertebrates, with their fossils shedding light on the transition from aquatic to terrestrial life.
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A genus of fossil reptiles of a primitive air-breathing type.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ANTHRAKERPETON
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Etymology of ANTHRAKERPETON
The word "anthrakerpeton" is derived from Ancient Greek. It consists of two main components: "anthrako" (ἄνθραξ) meaning "coal" and "herpeton" (ἑρπετόν) meaning "reptile" or "serpent". Therefore, "anthrakerpeton" can be translated as "coal reptile" or "coal serpent".
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