Fossilized Dino Droppings Unveil Secrets of Their Dominance

A new study published in Nature suggests that fossilized dinosaur feces and vomit, known as bromalites, could provide insights into how dinosaurs evolved from minor species to dominant ones. Researchers, including Martin Qvarnström from Uppsala University, examined these trace fossils to test two hypotheses about dinosaur dominance: the 'competitive replacement' model, which attributes their success to superior adaptations, and the 'opportunistic replacement' model, which suggests adaptability to environmental changes. The study highlights the potential of coprolites to reveal details about ancient diets and ecological dynamics.