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These studies suggest that dromaeosaurs, such as Microraptor and Sinornithosaurus, are the closest relatives to birds.
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The relationship between modern birds and dinosaurs has been a subject of extensive research. Paleontologists have been particularly interested in identifying which animals are most closely related to dinosaurs, especially within the theropod group. This synthesis aims to present the key findings from multiple research papers to address the question of which animal is closest related to dinosaurs.
Maniraptora and Birds: Maniraptora, a clade that includes birds and their closest relatives among theropod dinosaurs, shows significant evolutionary adaptations such as active flight and herbivory. This group is considered to be closely related to modern birds.
Dromaeosauridae and Birds: Dromaeosaurids, a group of theropod dinosaurs, are often cited as the closest dinosaurian relatives of birds. Fossils like Microraptor and Sinornithosaurus exhibit bird-like features, including feathers and anatomical structures conducive to flight .
The closest relatives to modern birds among dinosaurs are found within the Maniraptora clade, particularly the Dromaeosauridae family. These theropod dinosaurs share numerous characteristics with birds, including feathers and flight-related anatomical features, making them the most bird-like dinosaurs.
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