A Mesozoic bird from Gondwana preserving feathers

• DOI: 10.1038/ncomms8141
• Publication Date: 2015-06-02T15:36:04Z
• Authors: Ismar de Souza Ca...; Fernando E. Novas; Federico L. Agnolín; Marcelo P. Isasi; Francisco I. Freitas; José A. Andrade
• Keywords: Flight feather; Plumage

Abstract The fossil record of birds in the Mesozoic Gondwana is mostly based on isolated and often poorly preserved specimens, none which has details feather anatomy. We provide description a bird represented by skeleton with feathers from Early Cretaceous (NE Brazil). specimen sheds light homology 3D structure rachis-dominated feathers, previously known two-dimensional slabs. rectrices exhibit row rounded spots, probably corresponding to some original colour pattern. supports identification scapus as rachis, notably robust elliptical cross-section. In spite its juvenile nature, tail plumage resembles feathering adult individuals modern birds. Documentation South American enantiornithines broadens paleobiogeographic distribution basal this morphotype, up now only reported China.