New observations on the skull of Archaeopteryx

摘要: Although skeletal remains of the iconic oldest known avialian Archaeopteryx have been for almost 150 years, several aspects cranial anatomy this taxon remained enigmatic, mainly because strongly flattened and often fractured incomplete nature available skull materials. New investigation skulls recently described, excellently preserved tenth (Thermopolis) seventh (Munich) specimens revealed previously unrecognized characters helps to resolve some problematic issues. Thus, nasal shows a lateral notch lacrimal, as is found in many other saurischian dinosaurs, maxilla clearly participates margin external nares, there seems be pneumatic foramen comparable lacrimal fenestra non-avian theropods. In braincase, features reminiscent theropods, including ventral basisphenoid recess an anterior tympanic that laterally incised into basisphenoid/prootic. Most importantly, however, postorbital process jugal facet suture with postorbital, thus resolving question whether had closed bar. A new reconstruction presented, making even more theropod-like than recognized. Furthermore, bar configuration bones roof cast serious doubt on claims avian-style kinesis was present taxon.