Histovariability and fossil diagenesis of Pissarrachampsa (Pseudosuchia, Notosuchia, Baurusuchidae) from the Upper Cretaceous of Southeast Brazil
Overview
Paper Summary
Pissarrachampsa, a Cretaceous notosuchian, exhibited differential growth rates in its limb bones, with the tibia growing fastest and the fibula slowest. Histological analysis revealed fibrolamellar bone tissue and varying vascularization patterns, indicating a young adult ontogenetic stage and potential adaptations for cursorial locomotion.
Explain Like I'm Five
Scientists found that a long-ago crocodile-like creature called Pissarrachampsa had leg bones that grew at different speeds, with one growing super fast and another super slow. This creature was like a young grown-up and might have been a good runner!
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This study provides valuable insights into the growth dynamics and bone histology of a relatively understudied notosuchian taxon. The detailed histological analysis and identification of varied growth rates among limb elements contribute significantly to our understanding of notosuchian paleobiology. While the limited sample size and focus on limb bones pose some limitations, the study's methodology is sound, and the findings are relevant to broader discussions of crocodyliform evolution and adaptation.
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