Pterodactylus Pterodactylus is a genus of pterosaur (the first to be named and identified as a flying reptile) that lived during the late Jurassic Period. It was a carnivore and probably preyed upon fish and other small animals. Like all pterosaurs, the wings of Pterodactylus were formed by a skin and muscle membrane stretching from its elongated fourth finger to its hind limbs. It was supported internally by collagen fibers and externally by keratinous ridges. Fossils have been discovered in Europe and Africa.

The name derives from the Greek words pteron (πτερόn, meaning 'wing') and daktylos (δάκτυλος, meaning 'finger') and refers to the way in which the wing is supported by one large finger.

External linksEdit

• The Pterosaur Database - Upper Jurassic Several species are discussed following individual links here.

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