Scientists Unearth a Massive 40-Foot 'Hell Heron' Dinosaur That Hunted in Sahara Shallows Far from the Sea
Indian Defence Review • • world
Key Points:
- Researchers have identified a new species of Spinosaurus, named Spinosaurus mirabilis, from fossils found in the Sahara Desert in Niger, dating back about 95 million years and measuring around 40 feet long.
- S. mirabilis had adaptations for fish-eating, including large conical teeth forming a "fish trap" and an elongated snout, indicating it primarily preyed on fish rather than other dinosaurs.
- The species featured a 20-inch bony crest on its skull likely used for social display and mating rather than combat, emphasizing its role in attracting mates and territorial defense.
- The discovery site, located 300 to 600 miles from the nearest ancient ocean shoreline, challenges the theory that Spinosaurus was fully aquatic,
