T. rex Bite Marks Found on Fossilized Bones in Wyoming

Topic: Earth Science

Scientists found tooth marks on fossils that likely came from a Tyrannosaurus rex. The study analyzed over 3,000 bones and found 12 with possible T. rex bites.

Fossils of dinosaur bones uncovered in Wyoming contain bite marks that were probably made by a Tyrannosaurus rex. This discovery was made by researchers led by Bethania C. T. Siviero from Loma Linda University.

The team studied over 3,000 fossilized bones collected in northeastern Wyoming. These fossils date back to the late Cretaceous period, around 72-66 million years ago. Most of these bones belonged to a large plant-eating dinosaur called Edmontosaurus annectens, known for its broad bill.

The researchers found that only 12 bones showed possible tooth marks. Four of these had distinctive patterns that matched the shape and spacing of T. rex teeth. The team concluded that T. rex was likely the source of those marks. Other damaged bones may have been bitten by different predators or scavengers living in the region at the time.

The study suggests that some animals may have been killed by predators, leaving their remains exposed for scavengers to feed on before being buried and fossilized.

Why It Matters

This discovery helps us understand how prehistoric animals behaved and interacted with each other. It also shows us how important it is to correctly identify tooth marks on fossils to learn more about the past.

Key Facts

• Over 3,000 fossilized bones were analyzed from northeastern Wyoming.
• The fossils date back to the late Cretaceous period, around 72-66 million years ago.
• Only 12 bones showed possible tooth marks, with four having distinctive patterns matching T. rex teeth.
• Tyrannosaurus rex was likely the source of those marks.
• Other damaged bones may have been bitten by different predators or scavengers.

Key Terms

Cretaceous

A geologic period that occurred from 145 to 66 million years ago.

Edmontosaurus annectens

A large plant-eating dinosaur with a broad bill.

Implications

This discovery helps us understand how prehistoric animals behaved and interacted with each other. It also shows us how important it is to correctly identify tooth marks on fossils to learn more about the past.