Word: scipionyx
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...result, the newly named Scipionyx samniticus may end up telling paleontologists more about the anatomy of theropods--a group of two-legged dinosaurs--than they could ever learn from bones alone. The group, which includes Tyrannosaurus rex as well as velociraptors, is considered by many to comprise the direct ancestors of modern birds. Having the internal organs in hand could help support--or torpedo--that connection. Already, in fact, some scientists are suggesting that the position of the liver indicates an internal structure more like a lizard's than a bird's, undercutting the dinosaur-bird link. Its breastbone...
...matter Scipionyx's evolutionary significance, its aesthetic significance is clear. "It really is a beautiful specimen," says Norell. On that, he gets no disagreement from anybody...
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