New Species of Spinosaurus Discovered in Sahara

Paleontologists have unveiled a newly identified species of Spinosaurus, known as Spinosaurus mirabilis, which was a carnivorous dinosaur that may rival Tyrannosaurus in size.

This species thrived roughly 95 to 100 million years ago, with its fossil remains found in a remote part of Niger’s Sahara Desert, specifically a site called Jengebi.

The announcement, made public in the journal Science, comes after years of research that began with the discovery of a jaw fragment in 2019 and subsequent findings in 2022.

Spinosaurus mirabilis was a predator, primarily hunting fish in shallow waters, despite its habitat being 600 miles away from the ancient Tethys Sea.

Researchers speculate that this dinosaur’s distinct crown, a prominent bony protrusion atop its head, was likely vividly colored and layered in keratin.

Dr. Paul Sereno, the study leader and a professor at the University of Chicago, compared Spinosaurus mirabilis to a “hell heron.” He noted how it adeptly submerged in about two meters of water but likely preferred hunting in shallow areas, targeting the sizable fish of that era.

Sereno was prompted to explore the site after reading a paper from a French geologist discussing fossilized teeth resembling those of similar predators.

With assistance from local residents, he and his team were guided to a fossil-rich area where they discovered teeth and jawbone fragments. Sereno shared, “It was really emotional for our team.” He mentioned that no one had revisited that tooth site in over seven decades and recalled an “hour-and-a-half adventure” navigating through sand to reach the fossil locations.

He remarked that the discovery was “very sudden and surprising,” emphasizing its emotional significance to his team.

Recalling a cherished moment, Sereno mentioned how the team gathered around a laptop at their camp to view the new species for the first time. “We used solar power in the Sahara to generate a 3D digital model of the bones we found,” he explained, underlining the moment’s impact on their understanding of the discovery.

The fossil remains are set to be displayed at the River Museum in Niamey, Niger, while a replica will be showcased at the Chicago Children’s Museum.

Sereno highlighted the value of inspiring young minds with the thrill of new discoveries, viewing it as essential for nurturing the next generation of scientists who will continue to explore and protect our planet.

Interestingly, this recent discovery coincides with other dinosaur findings made in recent months, such as tracks in Colorado hinting at a limping dinosaur and new remains identified in Argentina.