New species of 240-million-year-old prehistoric animal could reshape dinosaur origins timeline
The discovery of the new species Dinodontosaurus isiyavamanda in Tanzania is challenging existing timelines regarding dinosaur evolution. By re-evaluating fossils collected in 1963, scientists believe they can more accurately date the rise of early dinosaur ancestors.
Why it matters
Refining the timeline of early dinosaur evolution helps scientists better understand the transition of life forms during the Triassic period.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source New species life reconstruction. Credit: Gabriel Ugueto A new prehistoric animal species from Tanzania dating to around 240 million years ago, during the Triassic period, has been described by an international team of researchers. Led by the University of Bristol, the new species, named Dinodontosaurus isiyavamanda, could help scientists refine the age of one of the world's most significant fossil sites and reshape the timeline of early dinosaur evolution.
The study, published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology , suggests that some of the earliest potential dinosaur fossils from Tanzania may be younger than previously thought.
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