Quetzalcoatlus northropi- BIO203
Quetzalcoatlus northropi
Quetzalcoatlus northropi, also known as a pterosaur, is said to be one of the largest flying reptiles of all time. Extant during the late Cretaceous period about 65 million years ago, this massive flying reptile soared over the rest with its 11 meter (36 feet) wingspan and its unusual flight mechanisms (MacCready, 1985). Many people doubted this beautiful creatures ability to fly because of its high mass, but this pterosaur obviously found a way around these implications. This pterosaur belongs to the Genus Quetzalcoatlus as shown in the phylogeny below. Quezalcoatlus northropi and its relatives are typically are toothless, have a long neck for feeding, large bodies and wingspan, and a pointed beak (MacCready, 1985). Research also has been conducted to conclude that pterosaurs evolved a different way of reproduction and feeding that was advantageous to them at that time. Overall, these creatures are incredible in their abilities and fascinating to research.
Figure 1. Phylogeny of pterosaur Quezalcoatlus northropi. Permission to use photo was granted by Kathryn Morris of the University of Plysmouth on 11/19/13.