What is dorygnathus?

Dorygnathus is a genus of pterosaur that lived during the Late Jurassic period, approximately 155-150 million years ago. They were flying reptiles that belonged to the group of reptiles known as pterosaurs.

Dorygnathus had a wingspan of about 1-1.5 meters (3-5 feet) and had a large, elongated skull with sharp teeth, suggesting they were carnivorous. They had a relatively long neck and a short body, with long, narrow wings suited for gliding and soaring through the air.

Fossils of Dorygnathus have been found in Germany, specifically in the Solnhofen limestone deposits, which are known for their exceptionally well-preserved fossils. These fossils have helped researchers learn more about the anatomy and behavior of these ancient flying reptiles.

Dorygnathus is considered to be a relatively small and agile pterosaur, likely using its sharp teeth to catch fish and other small prey. They are an important part of the evolutionary history of flying reptiles and provide valuable insights into the ecology and diversity of pterosaurs during the Jurassic period.