New dinosaur fossil found in Sahara

Posted on Monday, February 18 2008 @ 4:15 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
Scientists dugg up a fossil of a bizarre dinosaur that roamed Africa's Sahara desert some 110 million years ago.
Eocarcharia dinops, or ''fierce-eyed dawn shark,'' was armed with three-inch (7.6-centimeter), blade-like teeth, likely for disabling and dismembering prey. Some experts speculate that its menacing brow was used in head-butting contests with rival males.

Kryptops palaois, or ''old hidden face,'' boasted a horny face that may have had a special role.

"From the texture of the [skull] bone, it seems like they almost have a bill on the front of their face for sticking their head in and gnawing away at carcasses," said Paul Sereno. The University of Chicago paleontologist co-authored the new study on the species, which appears in the latest issue of the journal Acta Palaeontologica Polonica.


Source: National Geographic


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Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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