Pterygoida

Pterygoida is a suborder of the order Pterosauria, which includes the extinct group of flying reptiles known as pterosaurs. The name "Pterygoida" is derived from the Greek words "pterygon," meaning wing, and "eidos," meaning form or appearance. This suborder is characterized by its distinctive wing structure, which is adapted for powered flight. Pterygoida includes several families, such as the Pterodactylidae, which is known for its long, narrow wings and sharp teeth, and the Rhamphorhynchidae, which had a more robust build and a beak-like snout.

The earliest known pterygoids appeared in the late Triassic period, around 228 million years ago. They diversified during the Jurassic period and continued to evolve into the Cretaceous period, eventually going extinct around 66 million years ago, likely due to the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. Fossils of pterygoids have been found on all continents, indicating their widespread distribution during the Mesozoic era.

Pterygoids are notable for their adaptations to flight, including the presence of a patagium, a membrane that extended between their elongated fourth fingers and their hind limbs, providing additional surface area for flight. They also had a unique shoulder structure that allowed for a wide range of motion, essential for maneuvering in the air. Despite their diversity, pterygoids share several common features, such as a long, narrow snout, sharp teeth, and a robust skeleton adapted for flight.