Nemicolopterus (‬Forrest Dweller Wing)

Basic facts

  • 9.84 inches (0.25m) wingspan

  • Early Cretaceous

  • China

  • Omnivore

Nemicolopterus is a genus of tapejaromorph pterosaur, recognized by an exceptionally small specimen, making it the smallest known "adult" pterosaur to date. This diminutive creature thrived approximately 120 million years ago within the Jehol Biota. Its name, "Nemicolopterus," originates from a blend of Greek and Latin terms: "Nemos," signifying "forest," "ikolos," indicating "dweller," and Latinized "pteron," denoting "wing." The entire creature measures slightly over 5 centimeters in length, boasting a wingspan of about 25 centimeters. Its characteristics include a relatively large head and a pointed beak, with a somewhat rounded body.

Concerning its dietary habits, it could have been either omnivorous or purely insectivorous. Given that the sole specimen was a subadult, either scenario remains plausible. Like other azhdarchoids, such as N. crypticus, these pterosaurs might have deviated from hunting and possibly fed on fruits. Alternatively, they could have adopted a more generalist approach, incorporating both plants and small animals into their diet.