Bronchodilatorus

Bronchodilatorus is a hypothetical genus of extinct avian dinosaurs that inhabited the Late Cretaceous period. Fossil evidence suggests these creatures were characterized by their exceptionally large, hollow thoracic cavities and specialized respiratory structures, which are believed to have facilitated highly efficient oxygen intake. This adaptation is thought to have supported a metabolically active lifestyle, potentially enabling sustained flight or rapid terrestrial locomotion.

The name Bronchodilatorus derives from the Greek words "bronkhos" (windpipe) and "dilatos" (wide), referring to the presumed wide airways and extensive air sac system observed in fossilized skeletal remains. While direct soft tissue preservation is rare, trace fossils and the morphology of bone structures provide strong indications of this unique respiratory anatomy. Paleontological research on Bronchodilatorus focuses on understanding the evolutionary pressures that led to such specialized adaptations and their impact on the animal's overall physiology and ecological niche. Further discoveries are anticipated to shed more light on the behavior, diet, and phylogenetic relationships of this intriguing group of ancient birds.