In Niger, located in the Sahara Desert, scientists made an unusual discovery — a new species of Spinosaurus was identified, one of the largest known carnivorous dinosaurs, characterized by a distinctive crest on its head and teeth adapted for catching fish. This was reported by RIA Novosti, citing an article published in the journal Science.
Previously, researchers were only aware of one species — Spinosaurus aegyptiacus, which was described based on findings made in Egypt in 1915.
Recent excavations in the central part of the Sahara led to the discovery of a new area with fossils. As a result of the work, a new species was described, named Spinosaurus mirabilis. It is very similar to Spinosaurus aegyptiacus, but differs in having a taller, saber-like crest on its skull," the report states.
The name mirabilis, which translates to "wonderful," was given to this species due to its unusual crest.
Both species of Spinosaurus, which existed simultaneously, had similar body structures, including long spines on their backs and skulls adapted for fish hunting.
Researchers suggest that the crest of Spinosaurus may have been used as a display feature, as it is too fragile for use in combat. Similar to bull horns, the keratin-covered crest may have been brightly colored and played an important role in sexual or territorial competition.
Spinosaurids are considered some of the largest predators that inhabited the territory of modern-day Africa and Europe approximately 112-93 million years ago, during the mid-Cretaceous period.
