description Microraptor gui (IVPP V13352) Overview
Microraptor gui, a crow-sized dromaeosaurid from the Early Cretaceous Jiufotang Formation of China, is notable for bearing pennaceous flight feathers on all four limbs, suggesting biplane-like aerodynamics.
help Microraptor gui (IVPP V13352) FAQ
Why is Microraptor gui called a four-winged dinosaur?
Specimen IVPP V13352 preserves long pennaceous feathers on both the forelimbs and hind limbs, creating four major aerodynamic surfaces. It also had a feathered tail that likely contributed to stability.
Could Microraptor gui actually fly or only glide?
The fossil clearly shows an aerodynamic feather arrangement, but researchers continue to debate whether Microraptor mainly glided, used powered flapping, or combined both behaviors. Wind-tunnel and computer studies have tested several postures, including configurations compared with a biplane.
Where was the Microraptor gui specimen IVPP V13352 found?
It comes from the Early Cretaceous Jiufotang Formation of Liaoning Province in northeastern China. The specimen is associated with the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology in Beijing, abbreviated IVPP.
Was Microraptor a bird or a close dinosaur relative of birds?
Microraptor is classified as a dromaeosaurid theropod, placing it among non-avian dinosaurs related to Velociraptor. Its flight feathers nevertheless provide important evidence that complex aerodynamic structures evolved among dinosaurs close to the origin of birds.
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