Dinosaur Skeleton Unearthed in Thailand Reveals New Species
Scientists have discovered a well-preserved dinosaur skeleton in northeastern Thailand that is believed to be a new species. The dinosaur, named Minimocursor phunoiensis, was found on what is now the Khorat Plateau and was determined to be abundant 150 million years ago. The discovery was described in a paper published earlier this month.
The skeleton is said to be one of the best-preserved dinosaurs ever found in Southeast Asia. Paleontologist Clint Boyd, who was part of the research team, stated that the specimen is almost complete from the base of its neck to the base of its tail, including a well-preserved hand, which is rare in these animals. This provides valuable information about the early evolution of ornithischian dinosaurs, the group to which Minimocursor phunoiensis belongs.
The ornithischians, which also include more well-known dinosaurs like Triceratops, were herbivores and likely lived in herds. They are named for the similarity of their hips and pelvises to those of birds. Adult ornithischian dinosaurs varied in size from 2 feet to around 50 feet long.
Further analysis of the Minimocursor phunoiensis skeleton revealed that it was likely a fast runner. Despite its small size, estimated to be 2 feet in length for the skeleton and around 6.5 feet for an adult, the dinosaur would have been a fairly common animal in its environment. It lacked elaborate horns or armor and was probably situated at the base of the food chain.
The new species is believed to have lived during the late Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago. Boyd noted that the find is particularly exciting because there is a lack of fossil records from that time period, especially in Southeast Asia.
The dinosaur was discovered in the Phu Noi area of the Phy Kradung formation in 2012. This region is known for containing a wealth of specimens and is considered one of the richest non-marine vertebrate bone-beds in Southeast Asia. Researchers from the Palaeontological Research and Education Centre of Mahasarakham University and the Sirindhorn Museum have been conducting studies in the area for the past decade. The nearly 50% complete skeleton is currently housed at the university.
The discovery of this new dinosaur species provides valuable insights into the ancient ecosystems of Southeast Asia and expands our understanding of the diversity of dinosaurs during the late Jurassic period. With ongoing research in the area, scientists hope to uncover more secrets and further contribute to our knowledge of prehistoric life.