A recent study suggests that miniature versions of the Tyrannosaurus rex could be a distinct species, challenging previous assumptions that they were young T. rexes.
Researchers found evidence in the growth rings of young T. rex fossils indicating that the smaller versions, called Nanotyrannus, were likely a separate species.
They also identified over 150 characteristics distinguishing Nanotyrannus from T. rex, including longer arms and narrower snouts. (Trending: Chilling Arrest Footage of Trump Co-Defendant Provides Glimpse Into Jack Smith Probe)
Dr. Nick Longrich said, “If they were young T. rex they should be growing like crazy, putting on hundreds of kilograms a year, but we’re not seeing that.”
“We tried modeling the data in a lot of different ways and we kept getting low growth rates,” he continued.
“The arms are actually longer than those of T. rex,” wrote Dr. Longrich.
“Even the biggest T. rex, has shorter arms and smaller claws than in these little Nanotyrannus. This was an animal where the arms were actually pretty formidable weapons. It’s really just a completely different animal – small, fast, agile. T. rex relied on size and strength, but this animal relied on speed,” added the researcher.
Researcher Holly Woodward said, “I have no problem with Nanotyrannus being a real thing if science shows that,”.
“I’m not convinced that their interpretation is more accurate than ours,” she continued.
However, others welcomed the new perspective, with College of Charleston scientist and telling the New Scientist the results should serve to broaden the debate.
Scientist and self-described “dino-maniac” Scott Persons, said, “This new paper will not resolve the debate, but I am optimistic that this paper will shake things up a great deal,” Persons said.
This contradicts a 2020 study, sparking a debate among scientists about the true nature of these fossils.
While some remain unconvinced, others believe this new perspective will significantly impact the ongoing discussion.
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