Fossils of Dinosaur With Armoured Plate and Bony Spikes Discovered, Might Stand up to Impacts From Automotive Crash

A research has proven that the well-preserved fossil of a nodosaur, a plant-eating dinosaur, might stand up to the power of a high-speed automobile crash. The fossil, found in Alberta, Canada, belongs to Borealopelta markmitchelli , a species that lived round 110 million years in the past throughout the Early Cretaceous interval. This fossil is among the best-preserved dinosaur specimens ever discovered, providing unprecedented insights into the defensive capabilities of the nodosaur’s armour.

Research Insights from Knowledgeable Researchers

The analysis, led by biomechanical paleontologist Dr. Michael Habib from UCLA, revealed that the keratin sheaths masking the nodosaur’s bony spikes had been considerably thicker than initially thought. The thickness of the keratin layer on the fossil was measured at practically 16 centimetres in some areas, a lot thicker than the keratin present in modern-day animals like cattle horns. This keratin, mixed with bony spikes, supplied an exceptionally robust defence.

In accordance with Dr. Habib, the energy of the nodosaur’s armour was such that it might stand up to over 125,000 joules of power per sq. metre—equal to the power from a high-speed automobile collision. The analysis highlighted that this armour was a defence towards predators nevertheless it additionally doubtless performed a task in fight between males of the identical species.

Variations for Flexibility and Safety

The research additional recommended that the nodosaur’s armour, consisting of a versatile keratin layer, allowed for higher mobility and safety. If the keratin was broken, it may very well be shed, providing a fast restoration mechanism in comparison with brittle bone armour that would crack beneath impression. The presence of keratin would even have allowed the dinosaur to struggle successfully with its rivals, which might have been essential in mating battles.

The fossil’s outstanding preservation has led to additional insights into the armour of different dinosaur species, with researchers suggesting that comparable variations may need been widespread amongst armoured dinosaurs.