The previous oldest known fossil snakes date from~ 100 million year old sediments (Upper
Cretaceous) and are both morphologically and phylogenetically diverse, indicating that …

The first clear fossil indications of modern clades of snakes are in the Palaeogene. Many
major groups, including 'scolecophidians'(blindsnakes), probably originated earlier, and …

Background The highly derived morphology and astounding diversity of snakes has long
inspired debate regarding the ecological and evolutionary origin of both the snake total …

This book presents perspectives on the past and present state of the understanding of snake
origins. It reviews and critiques data and ideas from paleontology and neontology …

Snakes are one of the most extraordinary groups of terrestrial vertebrates, with numerous
specializations distinguishing them from other squamates (lizards and their allies). Their …

It has commonly been thought that snakes underwent progressive loss of their limbs by
gradual diminution of their use. However, recent developmental and palaeontological …

Relationships between the major lineages of snakes are assessed based on a phylogenetic
analysis of the most extensive phenotypic data set to date (212 osteological, 48 soft …

Snakes are the most diverse group of lizards, but their origins and early evolution remain
poorly understood owing to a lack of transitional forms. Several major issues remain …

Snakes possess a dense fossil record through the Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic and are
an important clade for studies of molecular phylogenetics. The use of the snake fossil record …

Derived large-mouthed snakes (macrostomatans) possess numerous specializations in their
skull and lower jaws that allow them to consume large vertebrate prey. In contrast, basal …