Final answer:
The Quetzalcoatlus, a pterosaur that existed millions of years ago, used its elongated and sturdy arm bone to aid its wings for launching into flight. Unlike birds, these creatures had wings reinforced by muscles and fibrous cords instead of feathers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Quetzalcoatlus, a type of pterosaur that lived from the late Triassic to the Cretaceous period, relied on a specific body part to aid their wings and allow them to launch into the air. This vital body part was not a spongy foot pad, sail-shaped nose flap, or a springy prehensile tail, but rather their sturdy arm bone.
This particular bone was greatly elongated, supporting an extensive wing membrane that contributed largely to their wingspan. Unlike birds, which have feathers, the Quetzalcoatlus' wings were formed by a layer of muscles, connective tissue, and blood vessels, all reinforced with a webbing of fibrous cords. This allowed them to soar high into the sky, likely launching from high altitudes like cliffs.
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