Exceptional preservation and foot structure reveal ecological transitions and lifestyles of early theropod flyers

Michael Pittman (), Phil R. Bell, Case Vincent Miller, Nathan J. Enriquez, Xiaoli Wang (), Xiaoting Zheng, Leah R. Tsang, Yuen Ting Tse, Michael Landes and Thomas G. Kaye
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Michael Pittman: The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Phil R. Bell: University of New England
Case Vincent Miller: The University of Hong Kong
Nathan J. Enriquez: University of New England
Xiaoli Wang: Linyi University
Xiaoting Zheng: Linyi University
Leah R. Tsang: University of New England
Yuen Ting Tse: The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Michael Landes: University of Toronto Mississauga
Thomas G. Kaye: Foundation for Scientific Advancement

Nature Communications, 2022, vol. 13, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: Abstract Morphology of keratinised toe pads and foot scales, hinging of foot joints and claw shape and size all inform the grasping ability, cursoriality and feeding mode of living birds. Presented here is morphological evidence from the fossil feet of early theropod flyers. Foot soft tissues and joint articulations are qualitatively assessed using laser-stimulated fluorescence. Pedal claw shape and size are quantitatively analysed using traditional morphometrics. We interpret these foot data among existing evidence to better understand the evolutionary ecology of early theropod flyers. Jurassic flyers like Anchiornis and Archaeopteryx show adaptations suggestive of relatively ground-dwelling lifestyles. Early Cretaceous flyers then diversify into more aerial lifestyles, including generalists like Confuciusornis and specialists like the climbing Fortunguavis. Some early birds, like the Late Jurassic Berlin Archaeopteryx and Early Cretaceous Sapeornis, show complex ecologies seemingly unique among sampled modern birds. As a non-bird flyer, finding affinities of Microraptor to a more specialised raptorial lifestyle is unexpected. Its hawk-like characteristics are rare among known theropod flyers of the time suggesting that some non-bird flyers perform specialised roles filled by birds today. We demonstrate diverse ecological profiles among early theropod flyers, changing as flight developed, and some non-bird flyers have more complex ecological roles.

Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35039-1

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