Protanisoptera
- Pronunciation
- /proh-TAN-i-SOP-ter-uh/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Plural
- Protanisoptera
Definition
An extinct order of insects, often referred to as 'primitive dragonflies,' that lived during the Upper Carboniferous and Permian periods. They are characterized by their large size and long, slender wings and are ancestors to modern dragonflies and damselflies.
Etymology
From Greek 'pro-', meaning 'before', and 'Anisoptera', a suborder of Odonata, meaning 'unequal wings'.
Example
Protanisoptera fossils provide critical insights into the evolution of winged insects.