Paleontology

‘Last titan’: Southeast Asia’s biggest dinosaur discovered

New long-necked dinosaur found in Northeast Brazil was a close relative of a European species

A new species of long-necked dinosaur, Dasosaurus tocantinensis, was discovered in Northeast Brazil and found to be a close relative of a European species. The dinosaur is estimated to have been around 20 meters long and lived approximately 120 million years ago.

Another clue in an extinction mystery: Why one ancient ocean creature survived while another vanished

A new study sheds light on the extinction of ancient ocean creatures, revealing that nautiloids survived due to their larger eggs and slower metabolic rates. The findings contradict previous hypotheses, suggesting that egg size was a key factor in their survival.

A skull full of surprises: Discovering the evolutionary secrets of fish brains

A new study mapped the internal structures of 87 ray-finned species in three-dimensional detail, revealing a wide range of brain sizes and shapes. Environmental factors appear to drive this variation, with deep-sea fishes tending toward smaller brains relative to skull size.

Where was your back yard millions of years ago?

Researchers developed an online tool to reconstruct ancient Earth locations, enabling a more detailed understanding of biodiversity and climate evolution. The tool allows for the study of complex mountain ranges and vanished tectonic plates, providing new insights into mass extinctions and species migration.

Researchers might have just found the "missing" braincase of the giant predatory dinosaur Siamraptor, with two Thai fossils representing the first known examples for this species

Two Thai fossils have yielded the first known examples of the braincase of the giant predator Siamraptor. These findings provide crucial insights into the cranial anatomy of Carcharodontosauria, a group of theropod dinosaurs.

Researchers discover the fossil of a new hamster-sized mammal that lived alongside dinosaurs on the Pacific Coast

A new species of hamster-sized mammal, Cimolodon desosai, has been discovered in the Upper Cretaceous El Gallo Formation of Baja California. The fossil, estimated to be 75 million years old, was found alongside dinosaur fossils and provides insights into the survival strategies of early mammals.

Giant “kraken-like” octopuses were apex predators in Cretaceous oceans

A new study reveals that colossal octopuses were top predators in Cretaceous oceans, with species like Nanaimoteuthis jeletzkyi growing up to 19 meters in length. The discovery suggests these creatures played a significant role in shaping marine ecosystems, potentially preying upon large vertebrate apex predators.

in Eastern Africa, the cradle of humankind is tearing apart

The study found that the Turkana Rift has been significantly thinned, with the crust about 13 kilometers thick, compared to over 35 kilometers farther from the rift. This thinning is a sign of a process called 'necking' where the crust stretches and becomes weaker, promoting continued rifting.

Paleobiology: Fossil true bug with remarkable claws

Researchers found a 100-million-year-old forest ecosystem's diversity in Kachin region amber. The fossil, a true water bug with striking chelae, is the fourth known case of these structures evolving independently.

Hanyang University ERICA researchers trace chicken domestication on the Korean Peninsula

Researchers analyzed bone collagen peptides from avian remains found at the Gungok-ri site in South Korea, identifying the presence of chickens and their management during the Proto-Three Kingdoms period. The study's findings provide insights into Korean food culture, agriculture, and animal domestication.

Researchers identify new jellyfish species in fossils near Quebec City

Researchers have discovered a new species of basal medusozoan, Paleocanna tentaculum, in fossil specimens found in Saint-Joachim, Quebec. The ancient creature, closely related to modern jellyfish, is a rare find due to the limited preservation of soft-bodied organisms.

Breathing new life into an ancient mystery: How researchers unlocked the respiratory secrets of the trilobite

A new study confirms that trilobites' feather-like structures attached to their limbs functioned as sophisticated gills, allowing them to extract oxygen from seawater. The research resolves a long-standing controversy over the respiratory capabilities of these ancient arthropods.

Earliest Cambrian microfossils preserve ringed worms

The discovery of seven millimeter-sized phosphatized fossils from the early Fortunian Kuanchuanpu Formation provides evidence of annelid body fossils from Cambrian Orsten-type fossil localities. The findings suggest that early annelids were polychaetes, supporting the hypothesis that polychaete morphologies were primitive among annelids.

Oldest dinosaur tracksite in Northeast Asia discovered: evidence shows large dinosaurs ranges as far as northern Mongolia 120 million years ago

A joint research team has rediscovered a dinosaur tracksite in the Saizhurakh area of northern Mongolia, revealing footprints of both large herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs. The site provides clear evidence that large dinosaurs inhabited regions as far north as northern Mongolia during the Early Cretaceous period.

Giant Aussie dinosaur was well equipped to nibble on tasty bush tucker

Muttaburrasaurus, Australia's largest plant-eating dinosaur, had a unique toothy beak that allowed it to browse for specific leaves and seeds, and its inner ear suggests it may have walked on hind legs to crop food. The discovery also reveals a keen sense of smell, with large olfactory bulbs and complex air chambers in the nose.

Student identifies new meat-eating dinosaur three times older than T. rex

A Virginia Tech student's discovery of a rare, ancient meat-eating dinosaur sheds light on the evolution and spread of dinosaurs during the Jurassic period. The species, Ptychotherates bucculentus, had massive cheekbones and a short snout, indicating constant evolution in early dinosaurs.

Hurricane-resilient coastal forests in the Northeastern U.S. may be nearing their limits

Researchers found a significant reduction in tree-ring growth after major hurricanes, but these trees can recover quickly within two years. Coastal forests in the Northeastern US are vulnerable to sea-level rise and stand dead or dying trees, posing a threat to densely populated communities.

Victoria's Ice Age megafauna gets a new member thanks to a 120-year-old museum fossil

Extinct Owen's Giant Echidna, Megalibgwilia owenii, was identified among fossils collected at Foul Air Cave in Victoria. The species grew up to a metre long and weighed 15 kilograms. Research highlights the scientific value of historical museum collections.

Ancient survivor reveals its secret: First-ever egg of a mammal ancestor discovered

The discovery of an ancient egg containing the embryo of Lystrosaurus reveals that its ancestors laid eggs, and offers insights into their reproductive strategy. The large eggs suggest that Lystrosaurus did not produce milk for its young, and its precocial hatchlings were capable of feeding themselves.

Spectacular fossil treasure trove pushes back origins of complex animals

A newly discovered fossil site in southwest China reveals that many key animal groups evolved before the start of the Cambrian Period. The study found fossils of ancestors of modern starfish, sea cucumbers, and chordates, pushing back the timeline of complex animal life by at least 4 million years.

Fossil site in southwest China fills in critical gap before Cambrian period

A new fossil assemblage in Yunnan, Southwest China has provided insight into the transition between Ediacaran and Cambrian periods. The site contains over 700 specimens, including bilaterian animals with preserved eating and locomotion structures, suggesting early animal diversification.

New study finds respiratory evolution drove body size differences in early land vertebrates

Early land vertebrates exhibited distinct patterns of body size evolution, with amniote-lineage land vertebrates experiencing a relaxation of constraints, enabling them to expand their maximum body size limit. Lissamphibian precursors showed stronger constraints on body size evolution and relied on cutaneous CO2 excretion.

Announcing T.R.A.C.I.N.G. Palaeontology 2027: How to improve the protection of palaeontological heritage

The project brings together eight perspectives to develop tools for documentation, legal clarity and traceability, supporting lawful activity and enforcement.

Were we looking in the wrong place? New fossil informs ape origins

A newly discovered fossil ape from northern Egypt has significantly rewritten the understanding of early hominoid evolution. The Masripithecus species, dating back to around 17-18 million years ago, represents the closest known hominoid relation to the lineage that ultimately gave rise to all living apes, including humans.

New ice age animals and slice of earth history found in central Texas water cave

A team of paleontologists has uncovered fossilized remains of giant tortoises, armadillos, and other Ice Age animals in a Central Texas water cave. The discovery, published in Quaternary Research, provides new insights into the region's past environment and animal community.

Fossil X-ray reveals new species of baby dino named for iconic Korean cartoon

A new species of baby dinosaur, Doolysaurus huhmini, has been discovered on Aphae Island in Korea, estimated to be around two years old. The fossil was analyzed using X-ray technology and revealed growth markers, gastroliths, and a possible fuzzy coat, providing insights into the dinosaur's diet and anatomy.

Researchers refine the clock of Earth’s early complex animal life

A new 'rock clock' has been developed to date major climate events from the Cambrian Period, allowing precise constraints on the timing of environmental changes. This advancement enables the determination of the timing and duration of the DrumIan Carbon isotope Excursion (DICE), a major global climate disturbance.

Hunted by neanderthals: Giant elephants traveled hundreds of kilometers across ice-age europe

Researchers analyzed the teeth of four European straight-tusked elephants, discovering they migrated up to 300km before reaching their final habitat. The study suggests organized hunting and cooperation between Neanderthals and the elephants.

Iowa-led research team names, describes new crocodile that hunted iconic Lucy’s species

A new species of crocodile, named Lucy's hunter, was discovered in Ethiopia and found to have hunted the iconic Lucy's species 3 million years ago. The crocodile, named Crocodylus lucivenator, was found to have a prominent lump on its head and a snout that extended further from its nostrils than other crocodiles at that time.

“Peculiar” ancient ancestor of the crocodile started life on four legs in adolescence before it began walking on two

A new study reveals that the ancient reptile Sonselasuchus, a relative of the crocodile, began life on four legs before learning to walk on two. The discovery was made by analyzing the proportions of the limb skeletons of different animals, suggesting that the creature's bipedal stance may have resulted from differential growth patterns.

Of crocodiles, counting and conferences

Researchers have discovered that crocodiles' growth rates are flexible and change depending on environmental conditions, revealing new insights into their life history. The findings challenge traditional methods used to age dinosaurs, suggesting a reevaluation of how growth marks are interpreted.

Evolution of new physical traits in mollusks has declined and grown more predictable over time

A new study by Geerat Vermeij and Tracy Thomson found that mollusks evolved unique physical traits at a frequency of once every 2 million years in early history, declining to about one trait every 9 million years. The evolution of these traits has become increasingly predictable over the 540-million-year history of mollusks.

Oldest known bony fish fossils uncover early vertebrate evolution

The discovery of Eosteus chongqingensis and Megamastax amblyodus provides a major breakthrough in understanding the evolution of bony fishes, revealing primitive characteristics that evolved much earlier than previously thought. These findings confirm South China as the cradle for the origin of jawed vertebrates.

Paleontologist Stephen Chester and colleagues reveal new clues about early primate evolution

Scientists have discovered the southernmost Purgatorius fossils, challenging long-standing assumptions about archaic primate habitats. The new findings suggest that these early primates originated in the north and spread southward, diversifying after the mass extinction event.

3.67 million year old fossil, Little Foot, gets a virtual facelift

A digital reconstruction of Little Foot's face reveals surprising similarities with Ethiopian fossils, challenging previous assumptions about early human evolution. The study sheds light on the diversity of fossil hominin faces across Africa and highlights the importance of the face in understanding primate adaptation and interaction.

This ancient plant-eater had a twisted jaw and sideways-facing teeth

The discovery of Tanyka's fossilized jawbone provides insights into the evolution of tetrapods. With its twisted jaw and sideways-facing teeth, Tanyka is a living fossil from an ancient lineage that thought had gone extinct.

Miniscule fossil discovery reveals fresh clues into the evolution of the earliest-known relative of all primates

The discovery of miniscule Purgatorius fossils in Colorado provides fresh insights into the evolution of the earliest-known relative of all primates. The find suggests that archaic primates originated in the north and spread southward, diversifying soon after the mass extinction at the end of the Cretaceous Period.

New study finds earliest evidence of big land predators hunting plant-eaters

Researchers from University of Toronto found evidence of large predators like Varanops and Dimetrodon hunting young herbivores in the early Permian period. Scavengers and small arthropods also fed on these carcasses, highlighting a complex food web in ancient ecosystems.

Fossil amber reveals the secret lives of Cretaceous ants

Scientists studied six pieces of amber preserving extinct insects, including ants, to understand their roles in past ecosystems. The study found ants interacting with mites and termites in three cases, suggesting symbiotic relationships.

New discovery of younger Ediacaran biota

Researchers have uncovered a new, exceptionally preserved fossil site in Newfoundland, Canada, dating back to 551 Ma. This find dramatically alters our understanding of the 'Kotlin Crisis,' the first extinction event in animal history, which is now estimated to have resulted in an astonishing 80% loss of biodiversity.

Vertebrate paleontology has a numbers problem. Computer vision can help

A new study finds that fewer than 250 fossils are required to train an image-based AI algorithm, a significant improvement on previously thought numbers. The discovery could greatly speed up the identification process in vertebrate paleontology, where most fossils are fragmented and difficult to analyze.

‘Tiny’ dinosaur, big impact: 90-million-year-old fossil rewrites history

A nearly complete skeleton of Alnashetri cerropoliciensis has been discovered in Argentina, providing the first evidence of this enigmatic group of dinosaur. The fossil's age and anatomy reveal that these tiny animals existed when the continents were still connected as Pangaea.

Globe-trotting ancient ‘sea-salamander’ fossils rediscovered from Australia’s dawn of the Age of Dinosaurs

Fossils from the Lower Triassic of Western Australia confirm a cryptic marine temnospondyl community, showing that earliest sea monsters adapted to life in the sea and radiated rapidly into various ecological niches. The discovery also reveals worldwide dispersal of these ancient animals across supercontinents.

New ‘scimitar-crested’ Spinosaurus species discovered in the central Sahara

A new spinosaurid species, S. mirabilis, with a distinctive scimitar-shaped crest has been discovered in Niger's central Sahara, adding to the understanding of spinosaurid evolution. The fossil find challenges the long-held hypothesis that these fish-eating theropods lived in an oceanic habitat.

Crested Spinosaurus fossil was aquatic, but lived 1,000 kilometers from the Tethys Sea

A new Spinosaurus species discovered in Niger suggests a third phase of evolution for the massive fish-eating dinosaurs. The fossil find indicates that spinosaurs like S. mirabilis specialized as shallow water predators in northern Africa and South America.

Why Triceratops has such a big nose

Researchers from the University of Tokyo used CT scans to study Triceratops' nasal anatomy, revealing a specialized structure called a respiratory turbinate. This unique feature helped regulate temperature and moisture levels in the dinosaur's large skull.

Rare fossil at Montana State’s Museum of the Rockies records Tyrannosaurus attack

A rare fossil discovery in Montana State University's Museum of the Rockies has shed new light on the feeding habits of Tyrannosaurus. The embedded tooth in an Edmontosaurus skull suggests a face-to-face encounter between the two species, revealing a terrifying picture of the last moments of the duck-billed dinosaur.

Look again! Those wrinkly rocks may actually be a fossilized microbial community

Researchers propose a new explanation for wrinkly textures in rocks, suggesting that microbes lived in deepwater environments and used chemosynthetic energy. This finding could lead to a reevaluation of fossil records and the classification of ancient formations.

Football-sized fossil creature may have been one of the first land animals to eat its veggies

Scientists discovered a 307-million-year-old fossil of an early land vertebrate that evolved to eat plants, challenging previous assumptions about the origins of herbivory. The 'tyrant digger' had tough teeth on its roof and probably ate smaller animals along with vegetation.

UT San Antonio-led research team discovers compound in 500-million-year-old fossils, shedding new light on Earth’s carbon cycle

A UT San Antonio-led research team identified chitin in trilobite fossils over 500 million years old, offering new insights into fossil preservation and the long-term carbon cycle. This discovery has significant implications for understanding how organic carbon is stored in Earth's crust over geologic time.

Ancient American pronghorns were built for speed

A University of Michigan study reveals that ancient American pronghorns were built for speed, with ankle bones remaining unchanged despite environmental change. The findings suggest that pronghorns adapted to running efficiently in a mosaic of woodlands and grasslands, implying their ability to thrive in future landscapes.

The earliest known bird had complex tongue bones and fleshy “teeth” on the roof of its mouth—which might have helped it snag the food it needed for flight

The earliest known bird, Archaeopteryx, had unique mouth features such as oral papillae, tongue bones, and bill-tip organs. These structures suggest that early birds evolved specialized ways to find and digest food efficiently, which is key to flight. The discovery provides new criteria for identifying dinosaur fossils as birds.

Baby dinosaurs a common prey for Late Jurassic predators

A new study reveals that young sauropods were a key food source for Late Jurassic predators, with adults unable to care for their eggs and offspring. The research team mapped out a 'food web' of the time, finding that sauropods had a significant impact on their ecosystem.

Huayuan biota decodes Earth’s first Phanerozoic mass extinction

The Huayuan biota provides a rare snapshot of ancient ecosystems following the Sinsk Event mass extinction, featuring diverse animal species, complex food webs, and fully functional biological carbon pump mechanisms. The discovery sheds light on transoceanic dispersal events and refugia for faunal migration during this critical post-ex...

Dinosaur exhibition in Aira City draws 11,580 visitors, closes successfully

The 'Wakuwaku Aira Dinosaur Museum Exhibition' drew 11,580 visitors to Aira Square in Aira City. The exhibition featured a reconstructed tyrannosaurid skeleton and recreated excavation site from Mongolia, as well as hands-on learning opportunities for children.

First known lichen in the fossil record helped structure terrestrial ecosystems

The study confirms that ancient lichens played a key role in forming the first soils and structuring terrestrial ecosystems. Researchers identified the presence of chitin, nitrogen compounds, and calcium microparticles compatible with modern lichen minerals.

Fossilized vomit reveals first filter-feeding pterosaur in the tropics

Researchers found a new species of filter-feeding pterosaur, Bakiribu waridza, in fossilized vomit from 110 million years ago. The pterosaur had fine teeth and was likely swallowed by a predator that regurgitated its skull and four fish, which were well-preserved.

Scientists solve 66 million-year-old mystery of how Earth’s greenhouse age ended

Researchers discovered that a significant drop in calcium levels in the ocean led to a massive decrease in carbon dioxide, driving global cooling and ending the planet's greenhouse era. The study suggests that changes in seawater chemistry played a key role in shaping climate history.

Fossils reveal ‘latitudinal traps’ that increased extinction risk for marine species

Researchers found that animals living on convoluted coastlines were more likely to go extinct than those living on north-south orientated coastlines. This study provides new insight into patterns of biodiversity distribution throughout Earth history and highlights the importance of coastline geometry for survival during climate change.