Abstract
On the basis of the type material of a new species of micrasterid, Micraster woodi sp. nov., from the upper Turonian of Lower Saxony (Germany), intraspecific patterns in variability of 18 size- and shape-related indices were analysed. The results were compared with available data for four other species of Micraster, viz. M. leskei, M. normanniae, M. cortestudinarium, M. rogalae and the closely related Roweaster corbovis, as documented by seven assemblages from the Turonian and Coniacian of Poland and Kazakhstan. Interspecific patterns in the variability of five shape indices reveal a specific pattern which is similar among most of the species studied. This finding indicates differences in developmental robustness among the shape indices studied. Indices with higher relative variability yield the more obvious differences between the species studied as given by the mean values of particular features. Accordingly, it is suggested that increases in variability, suggested to be the result of decreased canalisation, played an important role in the diversification of Micraster during the Late Cretaceous.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
