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.
According to experts, this newly discovered species is believed to have roamed the Earth approximately 79 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. Its name, which translates to “reaper of death”, was chosen due to its sharp, serrated teeth and large size, estimated to be about 8 meters long.
The discovery of Thanatotheristes degrootorum is significant as it is the oldest known tyrannosaur species found in Canada. It also provides valuable insight into the evolution and diversity of tyrannosaurs during the Cretaceous period.
Dr. Jared Voris, a paleontologist at the University of Calgary and lead author of the study, stated that the discovery of this new species “fills in a gap in our understanding of tyrannosaur evolution in North America.” He also added that the unique features of this dinosaur, such as its long and narrow snout, set it apart from other known tyrannosaur species.
The fossilized remains of Thanatotheristes degrootorum were first discovered in 2010 by John and Sandra De Groot, a couple who were hiking in the area. They initially thought the bones belonged to a different species, but after further examination, it was determined to be a new species of tyrannosaur.
The findings of this study have been published in the journal Cretaceous Research and have already garnered attention from the scientific community. This discovery highlights the importance of continued research and exploration in the field of paleontology, as there may still be many more unknown species waiting to be discovered.
The fossilized remains of Thanatotheristes degrootorum will be on display at the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Alberta, providing the public with the opportunity to learn more about this fascinating new species. This discovery serves as a reminder of the rich history of our planet and the importance of preserving and studying these ancient creatures.
