Name:
Sinoconodon (Greek for "Chinese spiky tooth"); pronounced SIGH-no-CO-no-don
Habitat:
Woodlands of Asia
Historical Period:
Late Triassic-Early Jurassic (210-200 million years ago)
Size and Weight:
About 6 inches long and a few ounces
Diet:
Omnivorous
Distinguishing Characteristics:
Sleek body; large eyes
About Sinoconodon:
There wasn’t a single "Aha!" moment when the therapsids ("mammal-like reptiles") evolved into early mammals. Paleontologists have found a number of intermediate forms, one of which is the ancient Sinoconodon, which sported a small, furry, vole-like body and a relatively large brain, as well as reptilian teeth that seem to have constantly replaced themselves throughout its lifetime. Based on its anatomy, some experts classify Sinoconodon among the earliest mammals, while others say it belongs firmly in the reptile camp.
