‘Hell-heron’ Dinosaur Species Discovered in the Sahara Desert

A newly discovered dinosaur species, Spinosaurus mirabilis, is providing paleontologists with crucial insights into the evolution of spinosaurids, a group of large, fish-eating dinosaurs. The discovery, led by a University of Chicago team, marks the first new spinosaurid species identified in over a century.

Discovery in Niger

The fossilized remains of Spinosaurus mirabilis were unearthed in the central Sahara Desert in Niger during expeditions in 2019 and 2022. The initial find, a large, scimitar-shaped bone, puzzled researchers until further excavations revealed two additional crests, confirming it as a previously unknown species. The 20-person team was led by Paul Sereno, professor of organismal biology and anatomy at the University of Chicago .

Unique Anatomical Features

Spinosaurus mirabilis possessed a distinctive, large, curved crest, believed to have been covered in keratin and brightly colored during its lifetime. The crest’s surface texture and internal vascular canals suggest it served as a visual beacon. Another notable feature is the interlocking arrangement of its teeth – the lower jaw teeth protruded between those of the upper jaw – forming a specialized trap for catching slippery fish. This adaptation is likewise observed in other fish-eating creatures like ichthyosaurs, crocodiles, and pterosaurs .

Implications for Spinosaurid Evolution

The discovery of S. Mirabilis adds important data to the understanding of spinosaurid evolution, particularly during the closing stages of the genus. Previously, spinosaurid fossils were primarily found in coastal regions, leading to hypotheses about a semi-aquatic lifestyle. Even as, the location of this find – inland, 500–1000 km from the nearest coastline – suggests these dinosaurs inhabited forested, riverine environments .

A Century of Discovery

Spinosaurus mirabilis is the first new spinosaurid species to be discovered in more than 100 years, highlighting the continued potential for paleontological discoveries in regions like the Sahara Desert. The research was published in the journal Science .