Jurassic Depths: The Enneabatrachus Chronicle
An academic exploration of an extinct genus of prehistoric frogs, detailing its classification, fossil evidence, and geological context.
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Genus Overview
Defining Enneabatrachus
Enneabatrachus signifies an extinct genus of prehistoric frogs. This classification places it within the broader group of amphibians, specifically the order Anura, which encompasses all modern frogs and toads. The genus is recognized for its existence during a significant transitionary period in Earth's history, bridging the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous epochs.
Taxonomic Placement
As a member of the order Anura, Enneabatrachus shares fundamental characteristics with extant frogs, such as the absence of a tail in adulthood and specialized hind limbs for leaping. Its placement within the family Alytidae suggests potential evolutionary relationships with modern species, though further research is often required to solidify such connections for extinct taxa.
Ancient Habitats
The fossilized remains of Enneabatrachus have been instrumental in reconstructing the paleoenvironments of its time. Its presence in formations across North America and North Africa provides critical insights into the geographical distribution and ecological niches occupied by amphibians during the Mesozoic Era, a period dominated by dinosaurs.
Scientific Classification
Hierarchical Taxonomy
The scientific classification of Enneabatrachus provides a structured framework for understanding its evolutionary lineage and biological relationships. This hierarchical system, rooted in comparative anatomy and evolutionary theory, situates the genus within the broader tapestry of life.
Fossil Evidence
Fragmentary Discoveries
The paleontological record for Enneabatrachus is primarily based on fragmentary remains, notably an ilium (a bone of the pelvis) measuring only a few millimeters in length. Such small fossil fragments, while seemingly insignificant, are crucial for identifying and classifying extinct species, offering vital clues about their morphology and evolutionary history.
Estimated Size and Weight
Based on the available fossil evidence, paleontologists estimate that individuals of Enneabatrachus hechti would have weighed only a few grams during their lifetime. This suggests a relatively small amphibian, likely adapted to specific microhabitats within its ancient ecosystem.
Temporal and Geographic Range
Distribution Across Eras
Enneabatrachus inhabited distinct geological periods and geographical locations. Its presence is documented in the Morrison Formation of the United States, dating to the Late Jurassic period. Additionally, indeterminate specimens have been recovered from the Ksar Metlili Formation in Morocco, extending its known temporal range into the Early Cretaceous (specifically the Kimmeridgian to Berriasian stages).
Geological Context
The Late Jurassic (approximately 163.5 to 145 million years ago) and Early Cretaceous (approximately 145 to 100.5 million years ago) were periods of significant geological and biological change. The discovery of Enneabatrachus in formations from these eras helps paleontologists understand the diversity and distribution of amphibian life during the age of dinosaurs.
Discovery and Naming
Formal Description
The genus Enneabatrachus was formally described and named by paleontologists Susan E. Evans and Angela Milner in 1993. The genus name itself, Enneabatrachus, is derived from the Greek word "ennea" (meaning nine) and "batrachos" (meaning frog), likely referencing the location of a significant fossil find, Quarry 9.
Key Fossil Sites
The type species, Enneabatrachus hechti, is known from specimens recovered from stratigraphic zone 5 of the Morrison Formation, notably from Quarry 9 at Como Bluff, Wyoming. Another specimen was later identified from Dinosaur National Monument, further contributing to our understanding of this ancient amphibian's distribution within North America.
Taxonomic Identifiers
Digital Catalogues
For researchers and database managers, standardized identifiers are crucial for referencing and cataloging biological taxa. Enneabatrachus is cataloged across several major biodiversity and paleontological databases, ensuring its accessibility within the global scientific information network.
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References
References
- Foster, J. (2007). "Enneabatrachus hechti" Jurassic West: The Dinosaurs of the Morrison Formation and Their World. Indiana University Press. p. 137.
- S. E. Evans and A. R. Milner. (1993). Frogs and salamanders from the Upper Jurassic Morrison Formation (Quarry Nine, Como Bluff) of North America. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology 13(1):24-30
- Foster, J. (2007). "Appendix." Jurassic West: The Dinosaurs of the Morrison Formation and Their World. Indiana University Press. pp. 327รขยย329.
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Academic Disclaimer
Important Notice Regarding Content
This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from publicly available academic sources, primarily Wikipedia. Its purpose is strictly informational and educational, aimed at providing a structured overview for advanced students of paleontology and related fields.
This is not a substitute for primary research or expert consultation. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided source material, the content may not encompass all nuances or the latest findings in the field. Paleontological data is constantly evolving with new discoveries and analytical techniques.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein. Users are encouraged to consult original research papers and authoritative databases for comprehensive and up-to-date information.