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Basic avian pulmonary design and flow-through ventilation in non-avian theropod dinosaurs

Author

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  • Patrick M. O'Connor

    (Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine)

  • Leon P. A. M. Claessens

    (Harvard University)

Abstract

Live fast and fly Some recently discovered fossils of non-avian theropod dinosaurs have features once considered unique to birds, including feather-like structures, rapid growth rates, and even bird-like behaviour — nesting and sleeping posture. These characteristics evolved before flight, and one suggestion is that they gave these predatory dinosaurs an edge in the form of elevated metabolic rates. This idea is supported by the results of reconstruction of the respiratory system of an exceptional new specimen of Majungatholus atopus. Like today's birds, they had air sacs and a thoracic skeleton consistent with flow-through ventilation of the lung.

Suggested Citation

  • Patrick M. O'Connor & Leon P. A. M. Claessens, 2005. "Basic avian pulmonary design and flow-through ventilation in non-avian theropod dinosaurs," Nature, Nature, vol. 436(7048), pages 253-256, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:436:y:2005:i:7048:d:10.1038_nature03716
    DOI: 10.1038/nature03716
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