Scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking discovery in the realm of palaeontology: a new species of dinosaur that promises to reshape our understanding of the evolutionary lineage of tyrannosaurs. The specimens, found in a Mongolian museum, are believed to date back 86 million years and represent the closest known ancestor of all tyrannosaurs, including the renowned T.rex.
This newly categorized species has been named Khankhuuluu mongoliensis, aptly translating to "Dragon Prince of Mongolia." This name signifies its position as an early, smaller member of the tyrannosaur family, as explained by Prof Darla Zelenitsky from the University of Calgary. Unlike their iconic descendants, early tyrannosauroids were more diminutive, agile hunters that thrived in the ample shadows cast by larger predatory dinosaurs.
Khankhuuluu's discovery provides critical insights into the evolutionary transition from these small predatory dinosaurs during the Jurassic period to the colossal tyrannosaurs of late prehistory. Weighing roughly 750 kg, the newly discovered species is significantly lighter than adult T.rex, which could reach weights up to eight times greater. This transitional fossil allows researchers to rethink tyrannosaur evolutionary trees and expand knowledge regarding the evolutionary developments that led to the imposing features of these apex predators.
According to PhD student and lead researcher Jared Voris, the new discovery elucidates early anatomical features crucial for the tyrannosaurs' predatorial prowess, such as evolved skull structures that enabled them to develop strong jaws capable of powerful bites. Such adaptations were eventual game-changers, allowing T.rex to hunt larger prey and even consume bones.
The two partial skeletons examined in this study were initially discovered in Mongolia during the early 1970s and were originally classified as Alectrosaurus. However, upon closer inspection by Mr. Voris, the distinguishing features suggested it belonged to a different lineage. This revelation proves the importance of continued research and examination within paleontological collections.
The exchange of populations between North America and Asia—facilitated by land bridges connecting Siberia and Alaska—emerged as a factor accelerating the evolution of various tyrannosaur groups over millennia. Prof Zelenitsky articulates a vivid picture: This discovery reveals that before the tyrannosaurs ascended to their roles as apex predators, they were, in essence, "princes" waiting to claim their throne.
