"Remarkable Fossil Suggests New Origin Story for Giant T. rex Relative"
TL;DR Summary
Researchers have discovered a new species of Tyrannosaurus, named Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, in New Mexico, which predates the familiar T. rex by 5 to 7 million years. The fossil, initially thought to belong to T. rex, exhibits distinct differences in skull structure and teeth. The discovery suggests a new origin story for the iconic dinosaur, indicating that the McRae Formation in New Mexico is older than previously thought. This finding challenges the traditional timeline of T. rex evolution and provides new insights into the early evolution of this famous predator.
- New Origin Story for Tyrannosaurus Rex Suggested by Fossil The New York Times
- New dinosaur discovery may be the closest relative to Tyrannosaurus rex, scientists say ABC News
- Scientists conclude New Mexico fossil is new Tyrannosaurus species Reuters
- A giant tyrannosaur from the Campanian–Maastrichtian of southern North America and the evolution of tyrannosaurid gigantism | Scientific Reports Nature.com
- Newfound T. rex relative was an even bigger apex predator, remarkable skull discovery suggests Livescience.com
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