In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers, including scientists from the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science (NMMNHS), have identified a new subspecies of dinosaur believed to be a more primitive and older relative of the Tyrannosaurus rex. The newly discovered subspecies, named Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, was found to be both older and more primitive than the iconic T. rex while being comparable in size. The findings, published in the journal “Scientific Reports,” were based on the analysis of a partial skull discovered in western New Mexico.
The study challenges previous assumptions about the arrival of the Tyrannosaurus rex in North America. The T. rex, considered one of the largest and most formidable terrestrial predators, was thought to have emerged in North America approximately 66 million years ago. However, the discovery of T. mcraeensis in the same region indicates that tyrannosaurs were present in what is now the southern U.S. at least 72 million years ago, reshaping the understanding of their origin and evolution in the continent.
The research not only highlights the significance of New Mexico’s dinosaur fossils but also suggests that more discoveries are likely, emphasizing the importance of continued exploration and study of the state’s rich paleontological resources. The findings contribute to the broader understanding of the tyrannosaur family and their presence in North America, providing valuable insights into the mysteries of their evolution and migration.
The significance of this discovery extends beyond scientific curiosity, showcasing the historical importance of New Mexico as a region that has been home to unique and ancient life forms for tens of millions of years. The NMMNHS, along with its collaborators, continues to play a vital role in unraveling the mysteries of Earth’s history through scientific investigations and the exploration of fossils, reaffirming the special place that New Mexico holds in the natural history of the planet.