|
This is an
all-new design. The first version had an introduction to each of the
dinosaur families which was next to the species shown. This
version uses subtle lines to better group the members of each family.
The introduction to each family is being rewritten to explain the
evolution of bird-like characteristics within it. Toward better
illustrating some points, additional species have been added.
Overall, the number of species shown has increased from 17 to 27.
This poster also features a more integrated design. Information on
important bones and forelimb evolution that was formerly presented in
insets is now shown with the appropriate species.
Dinosaur fossils are very rare and feathers are so small and
fragile, that it is very surprising that any have been found in the
fossil records. However "hard evidence" of feathers has been found for
six species. Because of so many other similarities, scientists believe
that all contemporary or later members of its family also had them.
Many of the "speculations" are shown on the poster. All of this is
explained in the introduction. This version uses a feather icon to
indicate the species that are actually known to have had feathers
preserved in the fossil record.
Status: All but two illustrations have been completed. Most
of the copy has been rewritten. But there is a problem that we
are trying to resolve. Today it is widely publicized that birds
descended from dinosaurs but yet the first bird,
Archaeopteryx lithographica, predates all the feathered dinosaurs.
The introduction text on each family demonstrates that there were many
lines of evolution involving bird-like features. It appears that what
actually happened is that Archaeopteryx lithographica and
dinosaurs descended from a common ancestor. We are currently
researching this in more detail.
The above is a planning layout. Once all content has been
completed, we will begin working on the final graphic design. |
