archaeornithes
noun
Meaning
An extinct subclass of primitive birds from the Jurassic period that possessed reptilian features like teeth and a long, bony tail.
Examples
- The Archaeornithes represent a crucial evolutionary link between non-avian dinosaurs and modern birds.
- Fossils belonging to the Archaeornithes were discovered in the Solnhofen limestone deposits of Germany.
Synonyms: primitive birds, avian dinosaurs, archaeopterygids, toothed birds