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What new insights do recent fossils provide about dinosaurs and pterosaurs?
Recent fossils, including a nearly complete megaraptoran dinosaur from Patagonia and well-preserved pterosaur bones from Germany, reveal details about predator size, behavior, and ecosystem roles. These finds help fill gaps in the fossil record and deepen our understanding of late Cretaceous ecosystems.
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How do these discoveries change our understanding of late Cretaceous predators?
The new fossils show that some predators, like Joaquinraptor, were among the top predators of their time. Their size and hunting adaptations suggest complex predator-prey relationships and a diverse ecosystem just before the mass extinction event.
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What do storm injuries on pterosaurs tell us about ancient weather patterns?
Fossils with storm-related injuries, such as fractures caused by high winds, indicate that severe weather events impacted prehistoric life. These findings suggest that ancient weather patterns included powerful storms that could cause significant injuries to flying reptiles.
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Are there other recent fossil finds that shed light on prehistoric life?
Yes, ongoing excavations in places like Mongolia and Germany continue to uncover fossils that reveal new species and behaviors. These discoveries contribute to a broader understanding of how prehistoric ecosystems functioned across different regions.
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Why are complete fossils so important for understanding dinosaurs and pterosaurs?
Complete fossils provide a full picture of an animal’s anatomy, helping scientists understand their size, movement, and behavior. They are crucial for reconstructing accurate models of prehistoric creatures and their ecosystems.
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How do these fossil discoveries impact our knowledge of the mass extinction event?
By studying fossils from just before the extinction, scientists can better understand the ecosystems that existed and how they were affected by environmental changes. These insights help explain the factors that led to the dinosaurs' and pterosaurs' demise.