Macroevolutionary patterns in the evolution of the skull in theropod dinosaurs: a morphogenetic approach

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Theropod dinosaurs were one of the most conspicuous groups of terrestrial vertebrates during the Mesozoic, and, in the form of birds, this is true even today. Although their evolutionary history is thus of greatest importance for understanding the origin and evolution of one of the most diverse vertebrate groups today, studies of macroevolutionary patterns in theropods are still rare, especially for the evolution of the skull in this group. However, recent works on theropod skull ontogeny and biomechanics provide a good base for such studies. In the current project, we will investigate the evolution of the skull in non-avian theropods and basal birds, using a geometric morphometric approach. We will thus establish the morphospace occupied by theropod skulls and analyse shifts in morphospace during theropod evolution. By integrating these morphometric studies with results from analyses of theropod skull ontogeny and biomechanics, we will further investigate the influence of heterochrony and functional aspects on the evolution of the theropod skull. The project will thus lead to a much better understanding of macroevolutionary patterns in the evolution of theropod skulls on the lineage towards birds.