Life history of Rhamphorhynchus inferred from bone histology and the diversity of pterosaurian growth strategies.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Rhamphorhynchus from the Solnhofen Limestones is the most prevalent long tailed pterosaur with a debated life history. Whereas morphological studies suggested a slow crocodile-like growth strategy and superprecocial volant hatchlings, the only histological study hitherto conducted on Rhamphorhynchus concluded a relatively high growth rate for the genus. These controversial conclusions can be tested by a bone histological survey of an ontogenetic series of Rhamphorhynchus.

Methodology/principal findings

Our results suggest that Bennett's second size category does not reflect real ontogenetic stage. Significant body size differences of histologically as well as morphologically adult specimens suggest developmental plasticity. Contrasting the 'superprecocial hatchlin

SUBMITTER: Prondvai E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3280310 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature