Fig1_EcosystemReconstruction(Credit_HenrySharpe).png (IMAGE)

Harvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

Fig1_EcosystemReconstruction(Credit_HenrySharpe).png

Caption

Artistic reconstruction of the reptile adaptive radiation in a terrestrial ecosystem during the warmest period in Earth's history. Image depicts a massive, big-headed, carnivorous erythrosuchid (close relative to crocodiles and dinosaurs) and a tiny gliding reptile at about 240 million years ago. The erythrosuchid is chasing the gliding reptile and it is propelling itself using a fossilized skull of the extinct Dimetrodon (early mammalian ancestor) in a hot and dry river valley.

Credit

Image created by Henry Sharpe

Usage Restrictions

Permission to use with proper citation

License

Original content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.