Topic: Biology

Scientists have discovered a massive new species of mosasaur that lived alongside dinosaurs. The giant predator, called Tylosaurus rex, measured up to 43 feet long and was found in northern Texas.

Scientists have identified a massive new species of marine reptile that lived alongside the dinosaurs and dominated prehistoric oceans. This newly described predator, named Tylosaurus rex (or T. rex), measured up to 43 feet long and is among the largest mosasaurs ever discovered.

The research was led by scientists from the American Museum of Natural History, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas, and Southern Methodist University. Fossils of the giant reptile were found mainly in northern Texas and date back about 80 million years.

Researchers chose the name Tylosaurus rex as a tribute to paleontologist John Thurmond, who recognized that giant tylosaurs from northeast Texas appeared unusually large and may have belonged to a separate species. He informally referred to them as 'Tylosaurus thalassotyrannus,' meaning 'sea tyrant.'

The holotype specimen for T. rex is currently displayed at the Perot Museum in Dallas. The fossil was originally discovered in 1979 near an artificial reservoir outside the city.

Besides being huge, roughly twice the length of the largest great white sharks, T. rex appeared to be a much meaner animal than other mosasaurs. Researchers say that evidence suggests violent battles between sea predators.

Why It Matters

This discovery is important because it helps us understand how life on Earth evolved millions of years ago. It also shows that even the largest creatures can have fierce rivalries, just like we do today.

Key Facts

• Tylosaurus rex was a massive marine reptile that lived alongside dinosaurs and measured up to 43 feet long
• The species was found in northern Texas and dates back about 80 million years
• Researchers chose the name Tylosaurus rex as a tribute to paleontologist John Thurmond

Key Terms

Mosasaur

A type of marine reptile that lived during the time of the dinosaurs

Implications

This discovery is important because it helps us understand how life on Earth evolved millions of years ago. It also shows that even the largest creatures can have fierce rivalries, just like we do today.