the new pterosaur wing model

[David Peters <davidrpeters@earthlink.net>]

It's nice to see that narrow wing membrane hypothesis is finally finding
acceptance.

The hind limb situation in the new art reminds me of the insitu
Sharovipteryx.

A couple of questions.

1.  Considering the new wing model, what do you artists think of the
terrestrial or arboreal situation regarding the hind limbs? Is it
sprawling (knees out) or erect (knees essentially beneath the hip
sockets)?

2. Does the tarsus in flight have its dorsal side up? Or anterior, in
the plane of the wing?

3. And if anterior, do the toes occasionally spread in flight as
spoilers?

4. The tail in Anhanguera, as preserved, may not be complete. Some
evidence suggests that an attenuated tail continued some distance beyond
in many, but not all "pterodactyloids". Does the presence of a
stingray-like tail, no longer stiffened by internal bracing, and
trailing behind like a refueling boom have any aerodynamic effect?

5. What is happening to the fuselage fillet seen on most pterosaurs? It
seems to disappear or become unnecessary in the present model in which
the knees are brought anteriorly close to the elbows?

6. What is the situation in basal pterosaurs regarding digit V? Is it
actively involved with any flight membrane? Or is it tucked away for
some other use?

Any ideas? I'll ante up after others have played.

David Peters
St. Louis