A groundbreaking study led by the University of Leicester has revealed that fossilized footprints of flying reptiles can be linked to specific pterosaur species. The research, published in Current Biology, uses 3D modeling and detailed analysis to identify three distinct types of tracks corresponding to different pterosaur groups.
The discovery supports the idea that pterosaurs underwent a major ecological shift around 160 million years ago, with several groups becoming more terrestrial. By linking footprints to specific species, scientists can now study how these flying reptiles lived, moved, and adapted to different ecosystems across time.
Researchers found evidence of three distinct types of pterosaur footprints: neoazhdarchians, ctenochasmatoids, and dsungaripterids. The first group includes the giant Quetzalcoatlus, which had a 10-meter wingspan and likely inhabited coastal areas alongside dinosaurs. The abundance of their tracks suggests they were common in these environments.
The study also uncovered footprints associated with fossilized skeletons, providing strong evidence for identifying the print makers. For example, dsungaripterids had powerful limbs and jaws, perfect for prising out prey and crushing shellfish.
Lead researcher Robert Smyth said: “Footprints offer a unique opportunity to study pterosaurs in their natural environment.” By examining footprints, scientists can now discover valuable information about the biology and ecology of these flying reptiles.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/they-walked-160-million-year-old-footprints-rewrite-pterosaur-history