- Ninjemys
-
Ninjemys oweni
Temporal range: Pleistocene
Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Sauropsida Order: Testudines Suborder: Cryptodira Family: †Meiolaniidae Genus: †Ninjemys Species: †N. oweni Synonyms - Meiolania oweni
Ninjemys oweni ("Owen's Ninja Turtle") was a large meiolaniid turtle from Pleistocene Queensland. It resembled its larger relative, Meiolania, save that the largest pair of horns on its head stuck out to the sides, rather than point backwards.
Skull of Ninjemys oweni.
It was originally thought to be a member of the genus Meiolania, but, anatomical differences lead to its placement in a new genus, which was named in honor of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Like other meiolaniids, N. oweni is believed to have been an herbivore. Its weight is estimated at 200 kg.[1]
References
- ^ MacPhee, R.D.E. (editor), "Extinctions in near time: causes, contexts, and consequences (Advances in Vertebrate Paleobiology)," Springer, 1999. ISBN 978-0306460920. Page 251. Retrieved June 8, 2010
External links
Categories:- Extinct turtles
- Pleistocene reptiles
- Meiolaniidae
- Prehistoric turtle stubs
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