Feb 23 • 13:53 UTC 🇪🇨 Ecuador El Universo (ES)

The monster of the desert: a huge dinosaur with a crest as sharp as a weapon discovered in the Sahara

An international team of 29 paleontologists has discovered a new species of dinosaur, Spinosaurus mirabilis, in the Sahara, characterized by its curved crest resembling that of a scimitar.

A monumental discovery in paleontology has taken place in the Sahara, where a team of 29 international paleontologists unearthed a new species of the notable Spinosaurus group known for their immense size and predatory nature. The dinosaur, named Spinosaurus mirabilis, boasts an intriguing physical characteristic: a curved crest that resembles a scimitar sword, highlighting its unique evolutionary features. Research findings were published in the prestigious journal, Science, detailing the significance of this discovery in understanding Spinosaurus evolution and ecology.

Spinosaurus mirabilis inhabited what is now a remote area of central Sahara about 95 million years ago, during a time when the region was lush with rivers and forests, fostering a diverse ecosystem. Although the full length of this dinosaur is not yet known, estimations suggest it could reach the size of a city bus. This discovery adds to the understanding of the geographical distribution and morphological diversity of Spinosaurus, particularly in relation to its well-known relative, Spinosaurus aegyptiacus, a formidable predator that has intrigued researchers for years.

The implications of this finding are vast, contributing to ongoing debates regarding the lifestyle and adaptability of Spinosaurus species in prehistoric environments. The unique features of Spinosaurus mirabilis not only enhance our knowledge of dinosaur evolution but also reflect the rich paleontological heritage of the Sahara. This discovery invites further investigation into the ecosystem it thrived in, potentially revealing new insights into the behavior and ecology of one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs known to science.

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