New Dinosaur Species Uncovered, Reshaping Understanding of T.rex Lineage

Ulaanbaatar, 12 Jun (ONA) --- A previously unknown dinosaur species has been identified in a Mongolian museum’s collection, altering scientists' understanding of tyrannosaur evolution.

Researchers determined that two 86-million-year-old skeletons represent the closest known relative of all tyrannosaurs—the fearsome group of predators that includes the legendary “Tyrannosaurus rex”.

The newly named species, “Khankhuuluu mongoliensis” (meaning "Dragon Prince of Mongolia"), provides crucial insights into how tyrannosaurs transformed into dominant hunters that ruled parts of North America and Asia until dinosaurs went extinct.

Unlike their later, massive descendants, early tyrannosauroids were small, swift predators that lived alongside larger carnivorous dinosaurs. “Khankhuuluu” marks a pivotal point in their evolution, bridging the gap between these smaller Jurassic hunters and the colossal apex predators like “T.rex”.

Weighing roughly 750 kilograms, “Khankhuuluu” was significantly lighter than an adult “T.rex”, which could reach eight times that mass. This intermediate size suggests it was a key transitional species in the tyrannosaur family tree.

The fossils also reveal early adaptations that later became crucial to tyrannosaurs’ dominance, such as reinforced skull structures that enabled powerful bites. Modifications in its nasal bone, for example, hint at the development of the immense jaw strength seen in “T.rex”, allowing it to crush bone and take down large prey.

Originally unearthed in Mongolia during the 1970s, the skeletons were initially classified as “Alectrosaurus”. However, closer examination revealed distinct tyrannosaur traits, leading to their reclassification.

The discovery also highlights how land bridges between Siberia and Alaska allowed these dinosaurs to migrate between continents, helping them diversify and thrive in different environments.

Published in “Nature”, this finding reshapes the known evolutionary path of tyrannosaurs, offering a clearer picture of their rise to power.

--- Ends/Khalid