Abstract
Pterosaur remains are found in numerous deposits of the world, but most are isolated and fragmentary elements. This is the case of Japan where a small number of specimens from those volant reptiles have been reported. Here, we redescribe the first pterosaur remains from Japan (NSM PV15005) that were found in outcrops of the Upper Cretaceous Yezo Group (Santonian–lower Campanian) in the Mikasa area of Hokkaido. Further preparation of this material revealed several pterosaur bones, including the distal end of a left femur, a non-ungual phalanx and a proximal caudal vertebra. Based on the double-condyle articulation of the caudal element and the main features of the femur, this specimen is referred to a pteranodontid-like pterosaur. Its wingspan is estimated to be around 6.8 m, making it the largest pterosaur recorded not only from Japan, but also from Asia so far, indicating that large flying reptiles were widespread worldwide during the Upper Cretaceous.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
