Icarosaurus
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| Icarosaurus Fossil range: Late Triassic |
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Icarosaurus is an extinct genus of reptile from the Late Triassic-age Lockatong Formation of New Jersey, closely related to lizards and the tuatara. Based on a partial skeleton missing part of the tail, some ribs, a hand, and parts of the legs, it was a small animal, about 10 centimeters (4 in) long from the skull to the hips. Like its relative Kuehneosaurus, it was able to glide short distances using 'wings' consisting of highly elongated ribs covered with skin.[1] This method of gliding is also seen in Coelurosauravus and the modern Draco, both of which are not closely related to Icarosaurus.
[edit] In popular culture
It is featured in When Dinosaurs Roamed America, escaping from a Coelophysis via gliding.
[edit] References
- ^ Colbert, Edwin H. (1966). "A gliding reptile from the Triassic of New Jersey" (pdf). American Museum Novitates 2246: 1–23.
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