New research examined the brain cavities of pterosaur fossils using CT scans and imaging software. The study appears in Current Biology and received partial funding from the National Science Foundation. Scientists measured the shape and size of brain regions, concentrating on areas linked to vision such as the optic lobe.
Researchers compared pterosaur brains with those of close relatives, including a flightless, tree-dwelling lagerpetid from the Triassic period. They found the lagerpetid already had features for improved vision, and pterosaurs shared an enlarged optic lobe. Otherwise the brains differed in overall shape and size.
Matteo Fabbri of Johns Hopkins Medicine says the limited similarities point to a rapid acquisition of flight at the origin of pterosaurs, which nevertheless had relatively small brains like non-flying dinosaurs. The authors also compare pterosaur brains with crocodile ancestors, early extinct birds and some dinosaurs, and call for future work on brain structure as well as size.
Difficult words
- cavity — a hollow space inside somethingcavities
- imaging software — computer programs that make medical images
- optic lobe — brain area important for vision
- lagerpetid — a small early reptile group from Triassic
- flightless — not able to fly or move by flying
- acquisition — the process of gaining or getting something
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why might improved vision be useful for animals that can fly, like pterosaurs?
- The authors want future work on brain structure as well as size. What specific question would you study next?
- How can comparing fossil brains with living animals help scientists understand extinct species?
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