150 Million-Year-Old Pterosaur Cold Case Cracked
LONDON (AP) - A team of paleontologists has finally solved the mystery of why so many young pterosaurs perished in a Jurassic lagoon 150 million years ago, according to research published Wednesday. The discovery, led by University of Leicester researcher Rab Smyth, reveals that storm winds were responsible for the deaths of two Pterodactylus antiquus hatchlings.
The fossils of the two specimens, named Lucky I and Lucky II, showed evidence of clean, slanted humerus fractures, indicating they had been twisted in the storm. Unable to fly, they drowned and were rapidly buried in the lagoon depths. Smyth's team found the remains in the Solnhofen Limestones of Germany, a site known for its well-preserved fossils from the Jurassic period.
"We've long suspected that storms played a role in the demise of these young pterosaurs," Smyth said in an interview. "But to see it so clearly documented in the fossil record is truly remarkable."
The Solnhofen Limestones, which date back to the Late Jurassic era, were once a tropical paradise with coral reefs and diverse marine life. However, the area was also prone to intense storms that would turn the lagoon into a pterosaur graveyard.
"This discovery not only sheds light on the lives of these fascinating creatures but also provides valuable insights into the evolution of flight," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a paleontologist at the University of Madrid. "It's a testament to the importance of continued research and exploration in the field of paleontology."
The findings have significant implications for our understanding of pterosaur behavior and ecology during the Jurassic period. According to Smyth, the discovery also highlights the importance of studying fossilized remains in their original context.
"The Solnhofen Limestones are a treasure trove of information about the ancient world," Smyth said. "By studying these fossils, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between life and environment."
The research is set to be published in an upcoming issue of the journal Nature. The discovery is expected to spark further investigation into the lives of pterosaurs during the Jurassic period.
Background:
The Solnhofen Limestones have yielded numerous important fossil discoveries, including the famous Archaeopteryx. However, the site has also been known for its well-preserved remains of pterosaurs, which were often found in large numbers.
International Perspective:
"This discovery is a significant contribution to our understanding of pterosaur evolution and behavior," said Dr. John Taylor, a paleontologist at the University of California, Berkeley. "It highlights the importance of international collaboration and the sharing of knowledge across borders."
The research was conducted by an international team of scientists from the United Kingdom, Germany, and Spain.
Current Status:
The discovery is expected to be published in its entirety in the coming weeks. Smyth's team is currently preparing a follow-up study on the implications of their findings for our understanding of pterosaur behavior during the Jurassic period.
*Reporting by Arstechnica.*
