What is huaxiapterus?

Huaxiapterus is a genus of pterosaur that lived during the Early Cretaceous period, about 120 million years ago. It was first described in 2005, based on fossils found in China. The type species is Huaxiapterus jii, and it is known from several nearly complete skeletons.

Huaxiapterus was a medium-sized pterosaur, with a wingspan of around 3 meters (10 feet). It had a triangular-shaped head with a long, pointed beak, and two rows of small, sharp teeth. Its body was slender and streamlined, with long, narrow wings. It likely had a membranous flap of skin along its body, stretching from its neck to the tip of its tail, which would have helped it to control its flight.

Based on its anatomy, scientists believe that Huaxiapterus was adapted for a coastal lifestyle, and likely fed on fish and other small marine animals. Its long, pointed beak and sharp teeth would have been well-suited for catching slippery prey in the water. Huaxiapterus was also likely a skilled flier, able to soar for long distances over the ocean.