Elopteryx Dinosaur is a genus of pterosaur which lived during the late Cretaceous Period, approximately 100 million years ago. The species is known from a single, extremely well-preserved skeleton, found in exceptionally good condition in the sediments of South America, making it one of the most important fossils from this time period. The skeleton, being almost complete, revealed a number of key features for the species. Firstly, Elopteryx was relatively small, with an estimated wingspan of just over 1.5 metres and a total length from toe to head of approximately 2.5 meters.
The most distinguishing feature of Elopteryx was its flight feathers. Unlike other species of pterosaur, these feathers were of a specialised design, with a crescent-shaped profile and serrated edges which gave them excellent flight performance. It is thought that these feathers also served as a sort of air break during dives, helping the species to achieve tight turns and manoeuvres which would have been difficult for most other pterosaurs to achieve. Elopteryx was likely a carnivore and may have been an aerial predator, using its crescent-shaped feathers to swoop down on its prey. It was suggested that the species may have also foraged for insects, fish, and small lizards from the air.
Elopteryx Facts :
| Name: | Elopteryx Dinosaurs |
| Size: | 1.5 meters |
| Main Facts: | By the presence of a large claw on each of its wings which could have been used for grasping prey. |
The exact diet of Elopteryx is not known, but it is thought that it may have been slightly more specialised than other species of pterosaur. This is suggested by the presence of the specialised flight feathers, as well as the large, powerful claw on the wing which could have been used for feeding. Elopteryx is an important fossil discovery which has provided us with a great deal of insight into the behavior and anatomy of pterosaurs during the late Cretaceous period.
Its specialised flight feathers suggest that it was an adept aerial predator, while the large eye socket and presence of the wing-claw suggest that it may have foraged for food in the air. The discovery of Elopteryx has also added to our understanding of the diversity of pterosaurs during this time period, and has helped to shed light on how they were adapted to different niches in the environment; making it an incredibly important discovery.
