Title: New Study Uncovers Ancient Relative of Tyrannosaurus Rex in New Mexico
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified a new subspecies of tyrannosaur, named Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, in the western region of New Mexico. The findings, detailed in a study published in Scientific Reports, challenge previous assumptions about the timeline and origins of the fearsome predator.
Traditionally, it was believed that the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex emerged in North America relatively late in history. However, the partial skull collected in New Mexico suggests that its ancient relative was present on the continent millions of years earlier than previously thought.
Though older and more primitive than T. rex, Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis shares a striking similarity in size. This revelation has sparked a wave of intrigue among researchers and paleontologists from renowned institutions such as the University of Bath, New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science, University of Utah, The George Washington University, Harrisburg University, Penn State Lehigh Valley, and the University of Alberta, who collaborated on the study.
Through their meticulous analysis, the scientific team identified subtle differences between the specimens of Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis and those previously discovered, leading them to conclude that the newfound species is distinct from its counterparts. This discovery offers fresh insights into the evolutionary journey of tyrannosaurs.
Furthermore, the findings raise important questions about the arrival of T. rex in North America and its subsequent evolution on the continent. The researchers speculate that the expansion of larger tyrannosaur species in the southern United States, when compared to smaller, more primitive species in Montana and Canada, may have been driven by the presence of giant horned dinosaurs like Triceratops and Torosaurus, which could have provided a plentiful food source to support their gigantic frames.
Importantly, this study underscores the significance of dinosaur fossils found in New Mexico and hints at the possibility of more groundbreaking discoveries in the state. By shedding light on the evolution of dinosaurs and the origins of the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex, this research adds to our understanding of Earth’s prehistoric past.
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