Microraptor gui

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Microraptor gui Xu et al, 2003 "Gu Zhiwei's small plunderer"

Discovered in the Jiufotang Formation (early Cretaceous) of Liaoning China, Microraptor gui is a small (77 cm long holotype, IVPP v13352) dromeosaur with asymmetrical pennaceous feathers on the length of the forelimb as well as the metatarsus, tibia, and femur, giving it a "four wing" apperance. The metatarsal feathers are probably inconsistant with a cursorial lifestyle, and the osteology of the manus and pes provide further support for an arboreal ecology.

M. gui is refered to Dromaeosauridae based on the following characters (following Xu et al, 2003):

a) extremely elongate prezygaophyses and chevrons on distal tail

b) manal phalanges III-1 significantly longer than III-2

c) hyperextendable pedal digit II

d) long metatarsal V

M. gui is refered to Microraptor on the basis of the following characters:

a) metacarpal III subequal to metacarpal II in length

b) manual phalanx III-2 less than 1/4 manual III-1

c) manual III-3 shorter and more slender than III-1

d) distal articular of manual III-3 skewed ventrally

M. gui is distinguished from Microraptor zhaoianus on the basis of the following characters:

a) prominent biceps tuberocity on the radius

b) greater reduction of manual digit I

c) strongly curved pubis

d) bowed tibia