Tooth Type and Position in a Hypothetical P. bakkeri Jaw
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Mentor/Supervising Professor Name
Snyder, Keith
Abstract (Description of Research)
The classification of troodontid theropods, particularly Pectinodon bakkeri, has long been a challenge due to significant variation in tooth morphology. This study analyzes over 550 P. bakkeri teeth recovered from the Newfeld Quarry Microsite in the Upper Cretaceous Lance Formation. Through k-means clustering, three distinct tooth morphotypes were identified, revealing differences in size, curvature, and wear patterns between maxillary and dentary teeth. Comparative analysis with other troodontids, such as Troodon formosus and Zanabazar junior, provides insight into taxonomic distinctions. These findings contribute to reconstructing a hypothetical P. bakkeri jaw and refining troodontid dental classification, offering a deeper understanding of Late Cretaceous theropod diversity.
Tooth Type and Position in a Hypothetical P. bakkeri Jaw
The classification of troodontid theropods, particularly Pectinodon bakkeri, has long been a challenge due to significant variation in tooth morphology. This study analyzes over 550 P. bakkeri teeth recovered from the Newfeld Quarry Microsite in the Upper Cretaceous Lance Formation. Through k-means clustering, three distinct tooth morphotypes were identified, revealing differences in size, curvature, and wear patterns between maxillary and dentary teeth. Comparative analysis with other troodontids, such as Troodon formosus and Zanabazar junior, provides insight into taxonomic distinctions. These findings contribute to reconstructing a hypothetical P. bakkeri jaw and refining troodontid dental classification, offering a deeper understanding of Late Cretaceous theropod diversity.