Dentirostral

/ˌdɛntɪˈrɒstrəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or having teeth-like structures on the beak or snout of a bird or animal.

Etymology

From Latin 'dentis' (tooth) + 'rostralis' (adjective form of rostrum, meaning beak). This technical term describes the anatomical feature of toothed beaks.

Kelly Says

The dentirostral feature tells us that birds with toothed beaks were likely fish-eaters or predators, because toothed beaks are perfect for gripping slippery prey—a big clue for scientists figuring out how extinct animals actually lived.

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