Pony-Sized Duckbill Dinosaurs Discovered in Morocco: Revealing Surprising Connections Across Continents
Fossils of pony-sized duckbill dinosaurs from Morocco have been unearthed by an international team of scientists, shedding light on a surprising link between the dinosaurs of Europe and Africa. In a new study published in Scientific Reports, researchers reveal that duckbills not only managed to cross the Tethys Sea but also flourished and diversified once they reached Africa, with at least three species inhabiting North Africa during the late Cretaceous period.
The discovery raises intriguing questions about how duckbill dinosaurs, which evolved in North America, ended up in Morocco. The answer lies in the geological history of the Earth during the late Cretaceous. Around 66 million years ago, high sea levels and the breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea isolated Africa, leaving it surrounded by water. Despite this geographical barrier, remains of a member of the duckbill dinosaur family were found in Africa, suggesting an incredible journey across open water.
The newly discovered duckbill dinosaur, named Minqaria bata, closely resembles European species, indicating that these duckbills likely swam or floated across hundreds of kilometers of open water to colonize North Africa. The fossils reveal that Minqaria bata was approximately 3-4 meters long and weighed about 250kg, making it the size of a pony. Although small by duckbill standards, the tightly knit bones of its skull indicate that it was fully mature.
The study was led by Dr. Nicholas Longrich from the University of Bath, along with Xabier Pereda-Suberbiola from the University of the Basque Country, Nathalie Bardet from the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, and Nour-Eddine Jalil from the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle and Museum of Natural History of Marrakesh, Universite Cadi Ayyad.
The implications of this discovery extend beyond the fascinating story of dinosaur migration. The fossils from Morocco provide valuable insights into the biodiversity of the late Cretaceous period and the terrestrial ecosystems of Africa. The phosphates in Morocco offer a unique window into the past, revealing remains of both marine and land-dwelling vertebrates. The discovery of a diverse range of dinosaur species, including carnivores and herbivores, suggests an abundance of life and complexity in the late Cretaceous ecosystems of North Africa.
The findings also emphasize the unpredictable nature of evolution and the potential for extraordinary events to shape the course of life on Earth. While it may seem highly improbable for dinosaurs to have crossed vast stretches of ocean, history has shown that improbable events can occur given enough time. Modern organisms, such as iguanas, tortoises, deer, elephants, and hippos, have been observed making unexpected ocean journeys, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of life.
This discovery serves as a reminder of how little we know about the fossil record and the immense potential for future discoveries. It also raises questions about the broader implications for our understanding of ancient ecosystems and the interconnectedness of different regions during critical periods in Earth’s history.
Looking ahead, this discovery prompts us to consider the potential for further revelations about dinosaur migration and the dynamics of ancient ecosystems. As scientific advancements continue to shed light on our planet’s past, it is essential to approach future research with an open mind and a willingness to challenge existing theories.
In conclusion, the recent findings of pony-sized duckbill dinosaurs in Morocco open up new avenues for exploration and spark curiosity about the untold stories that lie within the Earth’s fossil record. As our understanding of prehistoric life evolves, so too does our appreciation for the remarkable journeys that