The taxonomy and systematics of Parapsicephalus purdoni (Reptilia: Pterosauria) from the Lower Jurassic Whitby Mudstone Formation, Whitby, U.K

Abstract

The Lower Jurassic (Toarcian) pterosaur Parapsicephalus purdoni Newton, 1888 from the Whitby Mudstone Formation of North Yorkshire is known from a three-dimensionally preserved skull with a three-dimensional endocast of the brain. Since Newton’s original description, its taxonomic status has been contentious. Several cladistic studies have placed it within either Dimorphodontidae or Rhamphorhynchidae. Some investigators have suggested that it is a junior synonym of the Toarcian pterosaur Dorygnathus from the Posidonia Shale of south-western Germany. The holotype skull (GSM 3166) is redescribed and its taxonomic status re-evaluated. Several apomorphies suggest it belongs in the Rhamphorhynchidae while autapomorphies of the palate and jugal distinguish Parapsicephalus from Dorygnathus, supporting the continued separation of the two genera.

Keywords:

• Pterosauria
• Parapsicephalus
• United Kingdom
• taxonomy
• Lower Jurassic
• Toarcian

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Louise Neep and the staff at the BGS for collections access, as well as loaning GSM 3166 to the University of Portsmouth for study. The anonymous holder of the Altdorf skull is thanked for introducing us to the specimen and allowing us to photograph it. The Palaeontographical Society and Palaeontological Association are thanked for providing funding for visits to the BGS.