New Spinosaurus Species with Scimitar-Shaped Crest Discovered in Niger

Paleontologists have unearthed fossils of a new dinosaur species, Spinosaurus mirabilis, in Niger's Sahara Desert. This species, dating back approximately 95 million years, is notable for its large, scimitar-shaped bony crest atop its head and interlocking teeth adapted for catching fish.

Measuring about 40 feet (12 meters) in length and weighing between 5 to 7 tons, Spinosaurus mirabilis inhabited forested inland environments and waded into rivers to hunt sizable fish, similar to modern-day wading birds.

The discovery challenges previous assumptions about Spinosaurus habitats, as fossils of Spinosaurus aegyptiacus were found near ancient coastlines, suggesting a marine lifestyle. In contrast, Spinosaurus mirabilis was found far inland, indicating it was a shallow-water predator rather than fully aquatic.

The research, led by University of Chicago paleontologist Paul Sereno, was published in the journal Science.