The Herbivore's Path to Extinction: A Devouring Journey

Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered new insights into the prehistoric rhynchosaur, a reptile species that lived 225 to 250 million years ago. Using CT scanning, the team studied the teeth of these herbivores and found that their specialized dental systems were adapted for tough plant food. However, as the animals aged, their teeth wore down from the tough vegetation, eventually leading to starvation and extinction. The study also revealed how the rhynchosaurs' dentitions evolved over time and enabled them to diversify before being replaced by dinosaurs.