Dimorphodon
PALAEONTOLOGICAL RECORD
Dimorphodon is a genus of medium-sized pterosaur that lived in Europe during the early Jurassic Period. It was named by paleontologist Richard Owen in 1859. Dimorphodon means "two-form tooth", derived from the Greek di- (δι-) meaning 'two', morphḗ (μορφή) meaning 'shape' and odṓn (ὀδών) meaning 'tooth', referring to the fact that it had two distinct types of teeth in its jaws – which is comparatively rare among reptiles. The diet of Dimorphodon has been questioned among researchers, with earlier interpretations depicting it as an insectivore or a piscivore. Recent studies have suggested that Dimorphodon likely hunted small vertebrates, though it still would have consumed small invertebrates like insects.
DISCOVERY
Found in Dorset, England in 1828 by Mary Anning.
DIETARY PROFILE
Insectivore / small vertebrates.
NOTABLE PALAEONTOLOGY FACTS
- It possessed two fully distinct types of teeth, a trait extremely rare among reptiles.
- Its flight capabilities were likely clumsy, relying heavily on climbing and gliding.
HOLLYWOOD INACCURACIES
- Rendered with a more theropod-like face.
- Extremely aggressive in the film, unlike the likely timid real-world counterpart.
