A remarkably well-preserved dinosaur fossil discovered in northwestern China has helped researchers identify a new species of microraptor, a group of small feathered predators closely linked to the evolution of birdlike dinosaurs.
According to CNN, the 120-million-year-old fossil was found in what is now the Changma Basin in Gansu province, China.
A new analysis of the fossil’s intact shoulder and forelimb bones showed that the specimen belonged to a previously unknown microraptor species.
Researchers named the dinosaur Jianchangmaensis. The name Jian refers to a one-winged bird from Chinese mythology, reflecting the dinosaur’s birdlike features. The species name honors the Changma Basin, where the fossil was discovered.
The discovery is important because it expands the known geographic range of microraptors. Until now, Jianchangmaensis is the only confirmed Microraptor specimen found outside northeastern China.
The fossil also represents the most recent definitive Microraptor specimen in the fossil record, extending the known timeline of how long these feathered dinosaurs existed.
Study co-author Dr. Matt Lamanna said the discovery shows that non-avian dinosaurs once lived in what is now the Changma Basin, an area better known for its fossil birds.
Matt Lamanna explained that the research team had recovered more than 100 bird fossils from Changma, but only one non-avian dinosaur specimen. He said Jian provides important information about the biological history of the region and the ecological setting of the ancestors of modern birds.
Researchers believe the well-preserved fossil could help scientists better understand how microraptors moved between trees. It may also offer new clues about the origins of flight in birds.
Lamanna described the dinosaur as extraordinarily birdlike and said it was capable of taking to the air to some degree.
Microraptors were covered in feathers across their bodies. Along with feathered forelimbs that functioned like wings, they also had long feathers on their hind legs, giving them the appearance of having four wings.
According to Matt Lamanna, many paleontologists believe these animals spent some time on the ground but were also able to climb trees and glide from one tree to another, similar to a modern flying squirrel.