Respiratory Evolution Facilitated the Origin of Pterosaur Flight and Aerial Gigantism
2009
How Pterosaurs Flew and Grew Big
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Claessens Leon P. A. M., O'Connor Patrick M., Unwin David M.
Hypothesis
Did the respiratory system of pterosaurs enable their flight and size?
Conclusion
Pterosaurs had a highly efficient respiratory system that supported their ability to fly and grow to large sizes.
Supporting Evidence
- Pterosaurs were the first vertebrates to achieve true flapping flight.
- They had a flow-through respiratory system that was more efficient than that of modern reptiles.
- The evolution of their respiratory system allowed for greater body size and flight capabilities.
Takeaway
Pterosaurs had special lungs that helped them fly and get really big, just like how birds breathe today.
Methodology
The study used CT scanning and X-ray imaging to analyze the respiratory structures of pterosaurs and compare them with living birds and alligators.
Limitations
The fossil record of pterosaurs is poor, which limits the understanding of their respiratory system.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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