ANCYLOCERAS Meaning and
Definition
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Ancyloceras is a noun referring to a genus of extinct cephalopods, specifically ammonoid mollusks. It is derived from the Greek words "ankylos" meaning curved or crooked, and "keras" meaning horn. The name perfectly describes the distinctive shape of the shell of this ancient creature. Ancyloceras lived during the Mesozoic era, primarily in the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, approximately 201 to 66 million years ago.
The shell of an Ancyloceras is characterized by a tightly coiled spiral, with the whorls becoming increasingly larger as it grows. The outer surface of the shell is marked by prominent ribs or ridges that curve or hook backward, giving the shell its distinctive appearance. These hooked ribs are what differentiates Ancyloceras from other ammonoids, making it easily recognizable and highly sought after by paleontologists and collectors.
The size of an Ancyloceras shell can vary greatly, ranging from a few centimeters to over a meter in diameter, depending on the species. These ancient cephalopods inhabited marine environments and likely fed on small sea creatures as they swam through the water. Fossilized remains of Ancyloceras can be found worldwide, particularly in regions that were covered by ancient oceans during the Mesozoic era.
The study of Ancyloceras fossils provides valuable insights into the evolution and paleoecology of ancient marine ecosystems. These cephalopods were a vital part of the prehistoric seas, and their unique shell patterns contribute to understanding the diversity and adaptations of ancient mollusks.
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A genus of fossil chambered shells curved like a horn.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ANCYLOCERAS
- zncyloceras
- sncyloceras
- wncyloceras
- qncyloceras
- abcyloceras
- amcyloceras
- ajcyloceras
- ahcyloceras
- anxyloceras
- anvyloceras
- anfyloceras
- andyloceras
- anctloceras
- ancgloceras
- anchloceras
- anculoceras
- anc7loceras
- anc6loceras
- ancykoceras
- ancypoceras
Etymology of ANCYLOCERAS
The word "ancyloceras" has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from two Greek words: "ankulos", meaning "bent" or "curved", and "keras", meaning "horn". When combined, they form "ancyloceras", which refers to the curved or horn-shaped fossil shells of certain extinct ammonites.
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