BEIJING, Dec. 27 (Xinhua) -- To commemorate the two-decade partnership between Chinese and Brazilian scientists, a flying reptile from the dinosaur era has been named Meilifeilong youhao, which translates as "beautiful dragon of friendship" in Mandarin.
According to a study published recently in the journal Scientific Reports, paleontologists from both nations discovered a new toothless pterosaur species based on two specimens, one of which is the most complete and well-preserved pterosaur ever recorded in Chaoyang city, northeast China's Liaoning Province.
Pterosaurs, or cousin of dinosaurs, were the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight. They fly using four extremely enlarged ring finger phalanges to support their membranes.
The well-preserved fossil represents an individual with a maximum wingspan of around 2.16 meters. According to the study, "Beautiful" was so named in reference to the remarkable fossil preservation.
This species also provides novel information on the unknown palatal region of this flying reptile found in this location, as well as the rarely preserved ear part with stapes.
Medics remove 150 MAGGOTS from a woman's mouth after dental procedure left her with rotting tissue
'Commonsense' win as fish exports to US given all
Rustle these up with Rosemary: My traditional steak and kidney pie
US overdose deaths dropped in 2023, the first time since 2018
Queen Camilla praises Kate Middleton
'Commonsense' win as fish exports to US given all
Farm family’s newest crop shows China’s solar ascendancy
Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi drives wife Princess Beatrice and his son Wolfie and sister
Brewers starter Joe Ross leaves after first inning vs. Marlins with lower back strain
How Lady Louise Windsor is tipped for a key role in Prince William's future monarchy