New megaraptor species discovered with crocodile remains in its mouth.
New megaraptor species found in Argentina with evidence of a crocodile in its mouth.
Why it matters
- Provides insight into the diet and ecological role of megaraptors.
- Adds a new species to the dinosaur roster.
By the numbers
- The megaraptor was more than 7 meters (23 feet) long.
- It weighed over 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds).
- The fossil is dated back roughly 68 million years.
The big picture
- Megaraptors evolved to fill the apex predator role in South America and Australia.
- This discovery helps fill in gaps in understanding the megaraptor clade.
- Megaraptors had strong forelimbs with hypertrophied claws, suggesting a unique ecological role.
What they're saying
- Commenters speculate on the cause of death and preservation conditions.
Caveats
- The evidence of diet is suggestive but not definitive.
What’s next
- Further research could explore the ecological role and behavior of megaraptors.