The recent discovery of a new species of dinosaur has sparked excitement and curiosity among scientists and paleontologists. The fossilized remains of the dinosaur, named “Thanatotheristes degrootorum”, were found in Canada’s Alberta province.
The discovery was made by a team of researchers from the University of Calgary and the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology. The team was led by Dr. Jared Voris, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Calgary.
According to Dr. Voris, the dinosaur belongs to the tyrannosaur family and is estimated to have lived approximately 79 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period. It is believed to have been one of the top predators in its ecosystem, measuring up to 8 meters in length and weighing around 2,000 kilograms.
What makes this discovery even more significant is that it is the first new species of tyrannosaur to be found in Canada in over 50 years. The name “Thanatotheristes degrootorum” translates to “reaper of death” and is a nod to its predatory nature.
The fossilized remains of the dinosaur include a partial skull, jawbone, and teeth, providing valuable insights into its physical characteristics and behavior. The team also found evidence of bite marks on the jawbone, indicating that this species may have engaged in cannibalism.
The discovery of this new species sheds light on the diversity of tyrannosaurs during the Late Cretaceous period and adds to our understanding of the evolution of these apex predators. It also highlights the importance of continued research and exploration in the field of paleontology.
The findings of this study have been published in the journal Cretaceous Research and have already garnered attention from the scientific community. With further analysis and research, we can expect to learn more about this fascinating new species and its role in the ancient ecosystem.
This discovery serves as a reminder of the rich history of our planet and the importance of preserving and studying these ancient creatures. It is a testament to the tireless efforts of scientists and researchers in unraveling the mysteries of our past.
