Date of Award
2008
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Biology
Department
Biology
First Advisor
Sumida, Stuart
Second Advisor
Metcalf, Anthony
Third Advisor
Polcyn, David, and Middleton, Kevin
Abstract
Basal synapsids comprise one of the best represented groups of early tetrapods and demonstrate a classic example of a macroevolutionary transition. The basal synapsid fossil record is of significant interest to paleontolists because it presents an excellent opportunity for studying the evolution of vertebrate morphology. In the present study, neural spine osteohistology is further examined across a broad range of basal synapsid genera with hyperlongate neural spines. Due to the limited availability of specimens and the comparative approach required for destructive analysis, the present study is divided into two major comparative investigations: analysis of hyperlongate neural spine in (1) Spenacodontidae and (2) Edaphosauridae.
Recommended Citation
Huttenlocker, Adam Keith, "Comparative osteohistology of hyperelongate neural spines in basal synapsids (Vertebrata, Amniota): Growth and mechanical considerations" (2008). Theses Digitization Project. 3560.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/3560
