Emydosauria

/ˌɛmɪdoʊˈsɔːriə/ noun

Definition

An extinct group or clade of reptiles that may have included early crocodilomorphs and other archosaurs with turtle-like characteristics.

Etymology

From emyd (Greek emys, 'turtle') plus -sauria (Greek sauros, 'lizard'). A paleontological term combining Greek roots to describe ancient reptile groups.

Kelly Says

Paleontologists combine Greek roots to name extinct creatures they discover—'emydosauria' literally means 'turtle-lizards,' capturing the mixed characteristics these ancient reptiles had before modern turtles, crocodiles, and lizards evolved into their current forms!

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