Review
Version 1
This version is not peer-reviewed
Functional Morphology and Paleoecology of Pteranodon: A Detailed Review
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Version 1
: Received: 4 August 2024 / Approved: 5 August 2024 / Online: 6 August 2024 (06:05:02 CEST)
How to cite: Hu, T. Functional Morphology and Paleoecology of Pteranodon: A Detailed Review. Preprints 2024, 2024080360. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.0360.v1 Hu, T. Functional Morphology and Paleoecology of Pteranodon: A Detailed Review. Preprints 2024, 2024080360. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.0360.v1
Abstract
This literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of the functional morphology and paleoecology of Pteranodon, a prominent genus of Pterosaur from the Late Cretaceous period. By synthesizing recent research findings with classic studies, this paper elucidates the aerodynamic and ecological adaptations of Pteranodon, which was one of the largest pterosaurs to ever soar the skies. The review examines the distinctive cranial features, including its elongated cranial crest and its implications for sexual dimorphism and species identification. Detailed analysis of wing morphology and limb proportions reveals insights into its flight mechanics, suggesting that Pteranodon was adapted for dynamic soaring, leveraging its expansive wingspan for efficient long-distance travel. Additionally, the paper explores Pteranodon's feeding habits and dietary preferences based on dental and jaw structure, indicating a diet primarily consisting of fish and other aquatic prey. The review also integrates fossil evidence with ecological models to reconstruct the paleoenvironment of the Late Cretaceous, highlighting the role of Pteranodon in its ecosystem as both a predator and a competitor. This synthesis not only enhances our understanding of Pteranodon’s physiological and ecological roles but also contributes to broader discussions on pterosaur evolution and behavior.
Keywords
functional morphology; paleoecology; Pteranodon; Late Cretaceous; Pterosaur; aerodynamic adaptations; ecological adaptations; cranial features; elongated cranial crest; sexual dimorphism; species identification; wing morphology; flight mechanics; dynamic soaring; wingspan; long-distance travel; feeding habits; dietary preferences; dental structure; jaw structure; piscivorous diet; fossil evidence; ecological models; paleoenvironment; predator; competitor; pterosaur evolution; pterosaur behavior
Subject
Biology and Life Sciences, Life Sciences
Copyright: This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
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