Qinglongopterus is noted to be remarkably similar to Rhamphorhynchus, although Qinglongopterus has a proportionally smaller head and shorter wings.[1] In the original description, the authors suggest Rhamphorhynchus may even be descended from Qinglongopterus due to the large number of shared characters between the two genera. Qinglongopterus appears approximately 10 million years earlier than Rhamphorhynchus, yet possesses many derived traits for the group. This may be evidence of evolutionary stasis within rhamphorhynchine pterosaurs.
The holotype specimen has large eye sockets and exhibits a relative lack of fusion throughout the skeleton, suggesting the individual was a late-stage juvenile.[1] The holotype has an estimated wingspan of 34.4 centimeters (13.5 inches).
