Cotylosauria

/ˌkɒtɪloʊˈsɔːriə/ noun

Definition

The scientific classification name for an entire group of ancient reptiles distinguished by their socket-like hip joints.

Etymology

From Greek kotyle (cup) + sauros (lizard) + -ia (scientific collective suffix), creating the taxonomic name for this prehistoric reptile group.

Kelly Says

Scientists organize extinct creatures into family groups based on specific skeletal features, and the Cotylosaurs got their group name because their hip structure was so distinctively different from other prehistoric reptiles.

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