Discovery of new predatory dinosaur species gives new insight on their evolution
Thursday, March 30, 2017 - 09:41
in Paleontology & Archaeology
Scientists discovered a new tyrannosaur with an unusual mode of evolution. Findings include that Daspletosaurus horneri, or 'Horner's Frightful Lizard,' evolved directly from its geologically older relative, D. torosus, a rare form of evolution called anagenesis where one species gradually morphs into a new one. The research also changes the face of tyrannosaurs, which was covered by a lipless mask of scales, with patches of armor-like skin and horn, and a highly touch-sensitive snout.