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A problematic early tetrapod from the Mississippian of Nevada

Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology
By: , and 

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Abstract

We report here the discovery of a new taxon of Paleozoic tetrapod from the Late Mississippian of Nevada (330-340 Ma). It has a unique vertebral column with principal centra having vertical anterior and posterior faces, ventrally incomplete accessory centra located antero-dorsally in each centrum, and enlarged presacral/sacral vertebrae. The head and pectoral girdle were not preserved but the large femur, robust pelvic girdle and enlarged sacral vertebrae possibly indicate a terrestrial mode of life. This new form significantly extends the western geographic range of known Mississippian tetrapods. It presents a mosaic of primitive and derived features, indicating that continued revision of traditional accounts of vertebral homology and the early diversifications of Paleozoic tetrapods will be necessary.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title A problematic early tetrapod from the Mississippian of Nevada
Series title Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology
Volume 18
Issue 2
Year Published 1998
Language English
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology
First page 315
Last page 320
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