Newly Discovered Subspecies of Tyrannosaur Challenges Existing Knowledge
Paleontologists at the University of Bath have made a groundbreaking discovery in the world of dinosaurs. They have identified a previously unknown subspecies of tyrannosaur, known as Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, in New Mexico. The finding, which has been published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, is making waves in the scientific community and could potentially rewrite the history of the notorious Tyrannosaurus rex.
What makes this discovery all the more fascinating is that this newly discovered predator is older and more primitive than the well-known T. rex, yet it is approximately the same size. This contradicts the prevailing understanding of how the T. rex arrived in North America, as it introduces its earliest known relative on the continent.
The revelation is based on a partial skull that was collected several years ago and is currently on display at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. The researchers suggest that T. mcraeensis may have existed between 71 and 73 million years ago, several million years before T. rex.
Upon close examination, subtle differences in the skull bones of the newly discovered dinosaur and previously found T. rex skeletons indicate that they are not direct ancestors. This challenges the commonly held belief that T. rex gradually evolved into its dominant form over time. Instead, it suggests that larger, more advanced species of tyrannosaurs evolved in the southern United States, while smaller, more primitive ones thrived in Montana and Canada.
Dr. Emily Brown, the lead author of the study, expressed excitement over the findings, stating, “This discovery expands our understanding of tyrannosaurs and provides valuable insights into their evolutionary history. It opens up new avenues for research and creates a more nuanced picture of these iconic predators.”
The team of paleontologists is now eagerly working on further studies to explore the implications of this groundbreaking discovery. By delving deeper into the evolutionary lineage of Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, they hope to unravel the mysteries surrounding the reign of these colossal creatures.
As the story unfolds, the University of Bath’s uncovering of a new tyrannosaur subspecies is set to captivate the world of paleontology. With each new discovery, we inch closer to understanding the fascinating era when these mighty beasts roamed the earth, forever reshaping our perception of prehistoric life.
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