A team from the University of Chicago has made an exciting discovery: a new species of dinosaur called Spinosaurus mirabilis, or “hell heron.” This giant creature, which ate fish, is the first of its kind found in a century.
Back in 2019, paleontologist Paul Sereno led a 20-person team to Niger in the Sahara. They stumbled upon a peculiar bone shaped like a scimitar. At first, they didn’t know what it was. But after more digging and research, including a return trip in 2022, they identified it as part of this new dinosaur.
Sereno noted the significance of the find, saying it’s the first time any Spinosaurus skull material has been located in over a hundred years. The team was inspired by a 1950s discovery when a French geologist had found a fossilized tooth resembling those of another large predator, Carcharodontosaurus.
During their 2019 expedition, the team also met a local Tuareg man who guided them to the area where the Spinosaurus mirabilis bones were eventually uncovered. They returned in 2022, discovering more bones and conducting CT scans to create a digital model of the skull.
With the help of paleoartist Dani Navarro, the team then illustrated a scene showcasing Spinosaurus mirabilis in action. This dinosaur, featuring a scimitar-like head crest and interlocking teeth, likely preyed on fish by trapping them with its uniquely designed jaws.
Interestingly, this discovery challenges previous beliefs. While earlier findings suggested that spinosaurids were mainly aquatic creatures, the bones from Spinosaurus mirabilis indicate they also lived inland, near rivers. Experts believe they adapted to diverse environments over millions of years.
In addition to its bones, a recent study revealed that Spinosaurus mirabilis had a colorful head crest, possibly used for display or mating. This aspect of its biology adds a new layer to understanding dinosaur behavior during its time.
As this exciting research unfolds, replicas of Spinosaurus mirabilis will be featured at the Dinosaur Expedition exhibit at the Chicago Children’s Museum, allowing visitors to learn more about this remarkable dinosaur.
For those intrigued by dinosaurs, the study of Spinosaurus mirabilis marks a significant step in paleontology, revealing a world filled with mystery and new discoveries waiting to be explored.
For more on this discovery, check out the detailed report from the University of Chicago here.
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Niger, Africa, University of Chicago, Dinosaur
