old prehistoric animal from Tanzania discovered
Researchers have identified a new prehistoric species, Dinodontosaurus isiyavamanda, from 240-million-year-old fossils found in Tanzania. This discovery helps refine the timeline of early dinosaur evolution and suggests a broader geographic range for the genus than previously known.
Why it matters
It contributes to the scientific understanding of prehistoric ecosystems and the evolutionary history of vertebrates.
A new prehistoric animal species from Tanzania dating back around 240 million years to 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 Palaeontology today [16 September], suggests that some of the earliest potential dinosaur fossils from Tanzania may be younger than previously thought.
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