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New Dinosaur Species Discovered in Argentina
A team of paleontologists has unearthed a new species of dinosaur in Argentina, adding another piece to the puzzle of the mysterious megaraptoran group. This newly discovered predator, named Joaquinraptor casali, roamed the prehistoric floodplains of Patagonia between 66 and 70 million years ago, close to the time of the dinosaurs’ extinction.
The Joaquinraptor was a formidable creature, estimated to have been up to 23 feet long and possessing the characteristic powerful claws and elongated skull of the megaraptoran family. While megaraptorans have been found across South America, Australia, and parts of Asia, their evolutionary history and hunting habits remain somewhat unclear due to the incomplete nature of previously discovered fossils.
This latest find, however, offers a more complete picture. Researchers recovered parts of the skull, arm, leg, and tail bones from the Lago Colhué Huapi rock formation.
Unique features in these bones confirmed the discovery of a new species. According to Federico Agnolin of the Argentine Museum of Natural Science Bernardino Rivadavia, the Joaquinraptor casali “fills a major gap by providing one of the most complete skeletons yet” of a megaraptoran.
Intriguingly, the fossilized remains were found with the front leg bone of an ancient crocodile relative pressed against the dinosaur’s jaws. This discovery could offer valuable insights into the Joaquinraptor’s diet and its role in the prehistoric ecosystem.
The new species was named by Lucio Ibiricu of the Patagonian Institute of Geology and Paleontology in memory of his son, Joaquin. While Joaquin was too young to have developed an interest in dinosaurs, Ibiricu believes he would have appreciated the gesture. This discovery provides valuable new information about the megaraptoran group and adds to our understanding of the diverse prehistoric life that once thrived in South America.