OPISTHOCOELAN Meaning and
Definition
-
Opisthocoelan is a term used in paleontology to describe a specific anatomical feature found in a group of dinosaurs called sauropods. The word "opisthocoelan" is derived from the Greek words "opistho," meaning "behind," and "koilos," meaning "hollow" or "cavity."
In sauropods, the opisthocoelan condition refers to the presence of a hollow or concave structure in the posterior, or rearward, part of the vertebral centrum. The centrum is the cylindrical body or main part of a vertebra. This hollow or concave structure in the posterior end of the centrum is in contrast to the typical convex or flat condition found in many other dinosaur groups.
The unique opisthocoelan feature in sauropod vertebrae is believed to have provided a mechanical advantage by reducing the weight of each individual vertebra, allowing for a lighter overall vertebral column. This adaptation would have been advantageous for the massive sauropods, which were some of the largest animals to have ever lived, potentially reaching lengths of over 100 feet and weighing many tons.
The opisthocoelan condition is a distinguishing characteristic of sauropods and is therefore an important diagnostic feature used to identify and classify these dinosaurs in paleontological research.
Common Misspellings for OPISTHOCOELAN
- ipisthocoelan
- kpisthocoelan
- lpisthocoelan
- ppisthocoelan
- 0pisthocoelan
- 9pisthocoelan
- ooisthocoelan
- olisthocoelan
- o0isthocoelan
- opusthocoelan
- opjsthocoelan
- opksthocoelan
- oposthocoelan
- op9sthocoelan
- op8sthocoelan
- opiathocoelan
- opizthocoelan
- opixthocoelan
- opidthocoelan
- opiethocoelan
Etymology of OPISTHOCOELAN
The word "opisthocoelan" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "opistho" meaning "behind" or "in the rear" and "coel" meaning "cavity" or "hollow". The term is primarily used in paleontology and anatomy to describe a specific type of vertebrae structure where the vertebral centrum is concave at the posterior end (or on the side facing the rear) and convex on the anterior end. The etymology reflects the anatomical characteristic of this specific vertebrae structure.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
