Newly Discovered Subspecies Challenges Assumptions about Tyrannosaurus Rex Origins in North America
In a groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports, scientists have unveiled new insights into the origins of the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex in North America. The research introduces a newly discovered subspecies of tyrannosaur called Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, which is older and more primitive than the well-known T. rex but similar in size.
The discovery was made based on a partial skull found in western New Mexico, contradicting previous assumptions about when T. rex arrived in North America. Scientists from multiple institutions, including the University of Bath, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science, and the University of Utah, among others, collaborated on this remarkable finding.
According to the study, T. rex likely evolved in southern North America and later expanded into other parts of the continent. The presence of the newly discovered Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis indicates a different evolutionary path for this subspecies compared to the renowned T. rex, evident through subtle differences in their jaw bones.
Furthermore, the researchers believe that this discovery is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to tyrannosaur discoveries in New Mexico. The study highlights the potential for more groundbreaking findings in the future, shedding further light on the evolutionary history of these mighty creatures.
The expansion of our understanding of tyrannosaurs reveals that apex predators existed in what is now the southern United States over 72 million years ago. Interestingly, larger and more advanced species of tyrannosaurs evolved in the southern United States, while smaller and more primitive species arose in Montana and Canada.
The reasons behind the sudden northward spread of giant tyrannosaurs towards the end of the Cretaceous Period remain a mystery. However, scientists speculate that it could be related to the availability of food sources during that time.
Despite the species being well-known for over a century, this study emphasizes that there is still much to learn about the evolution of Tyrannosaurus rex. The discovery of the older and more primitive Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis challenges previous assumptions and reminds us that there are always new surprises awaiting in the world of paleontology.
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