T. rex took 40 years to reach full size, scientists find
A new study published in PeerJ suggests that Tyrannosaurus rex took up to 40 years to reach full adult size, significantly longer than the previously estimated 25 years. Researchers used advanced bone-ring analysis to reconstruct the dinosaur's growth history.
Why it matters
This research updates fundamental scientific understanding of the life history and biology of one of the most iconic prehistoric predators.
For years, scientists believed Tyrannosaurus rex reached its adult size at around age 25. But a major new study suggests the iconic predator may have taken much longer to mature. According to the research, T. rex likely continued growing for about 40 years before reaching its maximum size of roughly eight tons.
The article is a neutral summary of scientific research findings.
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