Re: Theropod herbivory - parallel evolution or one clade?

[dinoboygraphics@aol.com]

Couldn't agree more, Jeff. _Jeholornis_/_Shenzhouraptor_ was certainly 
a seed eater. The same may be true for the probable troodontid 
_Jinfengopteryx_, depending upon what those "oval structures" are in 
the gastral basket, described as "reddish yellow" in color (?orange).

> It's interesting to note that the Yixian includes early flowering 
plants as >well as birds and feathered climbers like Microraptor.

Jeholornis was certainly a seed eater, and I wouldn't be shocked if 
Jinfengopteryx was (although I would be suprised if "Jinfengopteryx" is 
actually different enough to be separated from Sinovenator).  But 
niether is a climber, and Jeholornis was not landing in trees.  WAIRing 
up perhaps.  Same with Microraptor (i.e. not climbing up tree trunks).

Scott Hartman
Science Director
Wyoming Dinosaur Center
110 Carter Ranch Rd.
Thermopolis, WY 82443
(800) 455-3466 ext. 230
Cell: (307) 921-8333

www.skeletaldrawing.com

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