Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
233-Million-Year-Old Dinosaur Fossil
Paleontologists have discovered a 233-million-year-old dinosaur fossil in Brazil, identified as the oldest known dinosaur fossil in the world. The fossil belongs to the Herrerasauridae family and dates back to the Triassic Period.
Images Courtesy: Rodrigo Temp Muller/UFSM
Originating from the Triassic Period
The Triassic Period, which lasted 50.5 million years, followed the Permian extinction event known as “The Great Dying.” This period marks the emergence of dinosaurs and preceded the end-Triassic extinction, which wiped out 76% of marine and terrestrial species.
Carnivorous and Bipedal
The dinosaur was a carnivorous, bipedal creature that lived when all continents formed the supercontinent Pangea. It is estimated to have been about eight feet long and inhabited what is now southern Brazil, specifically the region of Rio Grande do Sul.
Significance of the Discovery
Rodrigo Müller of the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) highlighted the importance of this discovery for understanding dinosaur origins. The fossil’s nearly complete preservation will provide valuable anatomical insights.
Among the Oldest Dinosaurs Known
The newly discovered fossil predates previously recorded oldest dinosaurs, which lived around 231 million years ago. While some fossils dating back to 240 million years have been found, they have not yet been officially confirmed.
Role of Heavy Rains in Discovery
The fossil was uncovered due to heavy rains in the region. These conditions, while aiding the discovery, also pose a threat to the preservation of other fossils.
Damage from Weather Conditions
Müller reported that parts of the fossil, including a leg bone and a pelvis bone, were already being damaged due to the heavy rains. The region experienced significant rainfall, leading to severe flooding and further jeopardizing the fossils.
Urgent Efforts to Salvage Fossils
Scientists are working to salvage and preserve the Herrerasaurid fossil amidst the challenging weather conditions. Efforts are being made to prevent further degradation from the elements.
Impact of Extreme Weather
The region has experienced unprecedented rainfall, with reports indicating that three months’ worth of rain fell in just two weeks. This extreme weather has not only uncovered fossils but also caused widespread destruction, including the loss of at least 182 lives.
