Hypuronector
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| Hypuronector Fossil range: Late Triassic |
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H. limnaios Colbert & Olsen, 2001 (type |
Hypuronector is a genus of extinct reptile from the Triassic Period that lived in what is now New Jersey. The etymology of the name translates as "deep-tailed swimmer from the lake." A member of the Simiosauria, Hypuronector is related to the arboreal Megalancosaurus. It was a small animal, estimated to be only 12 cm long in life. So far dozens of specimens of Hypuronector are known, but despite this, scientists have not found any complete skeletons. This makes attempts to reconstruct Hypuronector's body or life-style highly speculative and controversial.
[edit] Lifestyle Controversy
Despite their evolutionary relationship, it has been suggested that Hypuronector had a different ecological niche than other Simiosaurs. It has long been accepted that Megalancosaurus was an arboreal chameleon-like animal. However, Hypuronector has been suggested to be aquatic due to its deep, paddle-like tail and the fact that its remains were found in an ancient lake bottom.
Experts holding the contrary position, that Hypuronector was also arboreal note that other Simiosaurs that are believed to be arboreal even though all have been found preserved. The only current remains of Hypuronector are too scanty to reach a certain conclusion about the lifestyle practiced by members of the genus. The discovery of the animals hands and feet might demonstrate adaptations present in its relatives for an arboreal lifestyle, which would help settle the debate. Unfortunately, paleontologists have no remains from Hypuronector's head, neck, feet or hands and thus must await future discoveries.
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