T. rex grew up slowly: New study reveals 'king of dinosaurs' kept growing until age 40
Phys.org • • general
Key Points:
- A new study analyzing 17 Tyrannosaurus specimens reveals that T. rex took about 40 years to reach full size, significantly longer than the previously estimated 25 years.
- Researchers used advanced statistical methods and specialized light techniques to detect previously hidden growth rings in fossilized bones, allowing for a more detailed reconstruction of T. rex growth patterns.
- The findings suggest Tyrannosaurus grew more slowly and steadily, possibly enabling younger individuals to occupy various ecological roles, which may have contributed to their dominance as apex predators.
- Some specimens studied, including famous ones nicknamed "Jane" and "Petey," show growth patterns that differ statistically from typical T. rex, supporting the possibility of multiple related species within the "T
