Scientists Uncover Two New Pterosaur Species in Mongolia

Quick Summary

• Paleontologists identified two new azhdarchid pterosaur species from fossils in the Bayanshiree Formation, Gobi Desert, Mongolia.
• The species, Gobiazhdarcho tsogtbaatari and Tsogtopteryx mongoliensis, lived during the Late Cretaceous period (96-90 million years ago).
• Azhdarchids were toothless flying reptiles with terrestrial-foraging habits and are known for being among the largest flying creatures.
• Fossils were collected in 1993 and 1995 as part of a joint expedition by the Hayashibara Museum of Natural Sciences-Mongolian Paleontological Center.
• Detailed findings highlight:

– Gobiazhdarcho tsogtbaatari: Medium-sized (3.0 to 3.5 m wingspan),early member of a lineage linked to gigantic azhdarchids like Quetzalcoatlus.- Tsogtopteryx mongoliensis: Small-sized (<2 m wingspan) and one of the smallest azhdarchid species identified.

• Research results contribute to understanding diversifications within this family and indicate coexistence patterns between differently-sized species in shared habitats.

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Indian Opinion Analysis

The identification of thes two new pterosaur species sheds light on evolutionary dynamics during the Late Cretaceous epoch. It adds crucial data on size diversity and cohabitation behaviors among related Azhdarchid members, elements that remain underexplored globally.

While this revelation is geographically tied to Mongolia, it carries broader implications for paleontological research elsewhere, including India. With similar fossil-rich regions like India’s Narmada valley-an area already known for dinosaur discoveries-there exists ample scope for uncovering further ties between ancient ecosystems across Asia. The focus on collaborative international fieldwork underscores how pooling resources can lead to breakthroughs that enrich global understanding of prehistoric biodiversity.