The Remarkable Discovery of a New Pterosaur Species
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Chapter 1: The New Species of Pterosaur
Recent paleontological discoveries have revealed a new species of pterosaur, a flying reptile that existed during the Age of Dinosaurs. This newly identified species, named Epapatelo otyikokolo, has drawn significant attention due to its unique characteristics. The term "Epapatelo" comes from the Angolan dialect Nhaneca, meaning "wing," while "otyikokolo" translates to "lizard."
An international team of researchers found fossils along the coast of Angola, specifically in the Namibe province, home to the indigenous Nhaneca people. These fossils are believed to be from the Late Cretaceous period and are considered a rare find in sub-Saharan Africa.
"This discovery enhances our understanding of the ecological roles of these flying creatures along the west coast of Africa around 71.5 million years ago," states Michael J. Polcyn, who is associated with the Huffington Department of Earth Sciences and Southern Methodist University. The findings are detailed in the scientific journal Diversity.
Section 1.1: Ecological Insights
The analysis of Epapatelo otyikokolo suggests its behavior was akin to that of modern large birds, such as brown pelicans and fusiliers. These pterosaurs are believed to have soared over open waters, diving to capture fish as their primary food source. Since 2005, a total of fourteen bones of this species have been collected globally.
Africa's fossil record is rich yet incomplete, featuring Triassic and early Jurassic dinosaurs like Coelophysis, Draconyx, and Melanorosaurus.
Subsection 1.1.1: Pterosaurs Versus Dinosaurs
Pterosaurs, while closely related to dinosaurs, belong to a distinct branch of the reptile family tree. They were the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight, using their wings to generate lift. Paleontologists have identified numerous pterosaur species, varying greatly in size. For instance, the wingspan of Quetzalcoatlus reached 12 meters, while the tiny Nemicolopterus had a mere 25-centimeter wingspan and lacked teeth.
The ongoing debate regarding their evolutionary classification persists, with leading theories positioning pterosaurs as relatives of dinosaurs and crocodiles, categorized within the archosaurs. A notable difference between them and dinosaurs is found in their skeletal structure; pterosaurs do not possess a hole in the hip joint or a crest on the arm bone, features seen in dinosaurs.
Chapter 2: Exploring Pterosaur Flight Mechanics
The first video titled "How Did Giant Pterosaurs Fly?" delves into the mechanics of flight in these massive reptiles, exploring their adaptations for soaring through ancient skies.
The second video, "Pterosaurs 101 | National Geographic," provides a comprehensive overview of pterosaur biology, ecology, and their place in the history of flight.
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