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Scientists have revealed the discovery of a previously unknown species of pterosaur on Scotland’s Isle of Skye, sparking excitement in the paleontological community.
The recently identified flying reptile, dubbed Ceoptera evansae, dates back 168 to 166 million years, placing it in the Middle Jurassic era alongside dinosaurs.
Natural History Museum’s merit researcher, Professor Paul Barrett, expressed astonishment at the find, noting that “most of its close relatives are from China.”
The fossil evidence of this pterosaur was initially uncovered during a 2006 field trip near Elgol, and meticulous work has been undertaken since to prepare and scan the remains, some locked within stone.
Although the unearthed skeleton is incomplete, with preserved portions of limbs and vertebrae, it offers vital understanding regarding pterosaur evolution and the breadth of their prehistoric diversity.
Typically referred to as pterodactyls, the term is actually specific to a subfamily within the greater pterosaur assemblage. This new discovery is a member of the darwinopteran group, with other specimens primarily discovered in China.
The Journal Of Vertebrate Paleontology features research indicating that the darwinopteran lineage was more varied and enduring than once imagined, spanning over 25 million years.
Professor Barrett highlights how Ceoptera contributes significantly to pterosaur study, offering insights into their emergence and global presence.
The name Ceoptera evansae combines the Scottish Gaelic “cheo” (fog) with the Latin “ptera” (wing), and pays homage to British paleontologist Professor Susan E Evans through its epithet.
The new species was discovered as a fossil in the Isle of Skye. Pic: National History Museum
Professor Evans is celebrated for her extensive scientific contribution, particularly her research on Skye.
This pterosaur unveiling underscores the dearth of Middle Jurassic period fossils, which has impeded comprehensive pterosaur lineage studies to this point.
Dr Liz Martin-Silverstone, lead author and palaeobiologist at the University of Bristol, emphasized the significance of Ceoptera’s era for pterosaur evolution and the rarity of such finds.
This discovery enriches the paleontological narrative, advancing our understanding of the trajectory of advanced pterosaurs.
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FAQs about the New Pterosaur Discovery
What is the significance of the newly discovered pterosaur, Ceoptera evansae?
The discovery of Ceoptera evansae is significant because it provides new information on the diversity and evolutionary history of pterosaurs during the Middle Jurassic period. It also indicates that the advanced group of flying reptiles to which it belongs appeared earlier than previously thought.
Where was Ceoptera evansae found?
Ceoptera evansae fossils were discovered on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, specifically near Elgol on the southwest coast of the island.
How does Ceoptera evansae contribute to our understanding of pterosaur evolution?
The finding of Ceoptera evansae helps narrow down the timing of several key events in pterosaur evolution and suggests that darwinopteran pterosaurs had a much wider geographic distribution and diversity than previously known.
Why are pterosaur fossils from the Middle Jurassic period rare?
Middle Jurassic period pterosaur fossils are rare because this was a time of transition in pterosaur evolution, and the fossil record from this period is limited and often incomplete.
Conclusion
The Isle of Skye has once again proven to be a treasure trove for paleontologists with the discovery of the new pterosaur species Ceoptera evansae. Although pterosaurs from the Middle Jurassic remain elusive, each new finding like this one brings clarity to the intricate history of these ancient creatures. Bridging gaps in the fossil record, this discovery stands as a testament to the persistence of scientific inquiry and the ways in which even the most fragmentary remains can illuminate the past.
