In the Atlas Mountains near Boulemane, Morocco, paleontologists have unearthed fossils that identify a new species of dinosaur called Spicomellus aferThis 165-million-year-old specimen represents the oldest ankylosaurus known to date. Ankylosaurs were slow-moving, quadrupedal, heavily armored herbivorous dinosaurs protected by bony armor.
The characteristics of this dinosaur are unique and impressive
Le Spicomellus afer measured about four meters long and weighed up to two tons. It is distinguished by an impressive set of spines: spines up to one meter long around the neck, bony plates protecting the throat, spines on the ribs, and two large spikes above the hips. These structures, unique among known dinosaurs, would have served both as defense mechanisms against predators and as means of social or sexual display.
A peculiarity of Spicomellus lies in the fusion of some of its tail vertebrae, a trait associated with tail weapons in ankylosaurs. This discovery suggests that the evolution of these weapons occurred about 30 million years earlier than scientists previously assumed, challenging previous theories about the evolution of armor in these dinosaurs.
A discovery threatened by fossil trafficking
Unfortunately, the fossil has been partially affected by poaching. Some parts were extracted and sold illegally, highlighting the challenges associated with preserving Morocco's paleontological heritage. The remaining fossils are preserved at the Dhar El Mahraz Faculty of Sciences in Fez, ensuring their study and protection.
In any case, this discovery offers unprecedented insight into the diversity and complexity of Jurassic herbivorous dinosaurs. It enriches our understanding of the evolution of defense mechanisms and social behaviors of these prehistoric creatures. Morocco thus continues to play a central role in global paleontological research, offering invaluable insights into life on Earth millions of years ago.
