Dinosaurs nesting on tidal flats

Ichnological evidence of Megalosaurid Dinosaurs Crossing Middle Jurassic Tidal Flats

A new dinosaur tracksite in the Vale de Meios quarry (Serra de Aire Formation, Bathonian, Portugal)preserves more than 700 theropod tracks. They are organized in at least 80 unidirectional trackways arranged in a bimodal orientation pattern (W/NW and E/SE). Quantitative and qualitative comparisons reveal that the large tridactyl, elongated and asymmetric tracks resemble the typical Late Jurassi...

Tidal Flats and Muddy Seafloors

The objectives of our studies in FY09 are to collect observations of currents, waves, and bathymetry on tidal flats, and to develop, test, and improve models for tidal-flat processes and for mud-induced dissipation of waves in shallow water. Specific goals relating to tidal flats are to: Investigate the relative importance to the circulation of riverine and tidal flows, and Estimate the bottom ...

Eggshell Porosity Provides Insight on Evolution of Nesting in Dinosaurs

Knowledge about the types of nests built by dinosaurs can provide insight into the evolution of nesting and reproductive behaviors among archosaurs. However, the low preservation potential of their nesting materials and nesting structures means that most information can only be gleaned indirectly through comparison with extant archosaurs. Two general nest types are recognized among living archo...

Tidal Flats, Muddy Seafloors, Sandy Coasts, and Inlets

Seagrass corridors and tidal state modify how fish use habitats on intertidal coral reef flats

Identifying pathways that animals use to move among ecosystems has become a focus for improving conservation planning. The function of habitat corridors in facilitating animal movement among terrestrial ecosystems is well established. By contrast, the role of habitat corridors for the movement of marine animals is poorly understood. We used underwater video cameras to evaluate the effects of se...