Two exceptionally well-preserved specimens of “Zangerlia” neimongolensis provide addi-tional information on the structure of the skull, shell and limbs of this taxon. Thesespecimens show that the carapace is more similar to that of Hanbogdemys than was previ-ously recognized. A PAUP analysis results in a single most parsimonious cladogram in whichthe type species of Zangerlia, Zangerlia testudinimorpha is separated from other speciesthat have been included in that genus while “Z.” neimongolensis, “Zangerlia” ukaachelysand “Zangerlia” dzamynchondi and Jiangxichelys are grouped together. Both specimens areexceptional in being preserved in a life-like position: one is preserved with the skull ina retracted position; the other with the head and left forelimb both protracted and in araised position. These positions suggest that they were entombed while still alive. Thusthese specimens provide additional examples of rapid burial of vertebrates in the BayanMandahu locality, most likely from either by sand storms that dumped massive amountsof sand over a short period of time or by collapse of individuals in burrows.

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Paleontology