The origin of dinosaurs has long been a topic of debate among paleontologists. For decades, the widely accepted theory was that these massive creatures first appeared on Gondwana, the southern part of the ancient supercontinent Pangea. However, recent discoveries have revealed a new narrative.
A team from the University of Wisconsin-Madison uncovered fossil remains in the Popo Agie Formation, a region near the equator in ancient Laurasia, 230 million years ago. The fossils belonged to a new dinosaur species: Ahvaytum bahndooiveche. This finding challenges the idea that dinosaurs only thrived in the Southern Hemisphere during this time.
The discovery of Ahvaytum bahndooiveche not only alters our understanding of prehistoric history but also highlights the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives in research. The species’ name honors the Eastern Shoshone Tribe, whose ancestral lands were home to the fossil site. This partnership reflects a deeper respect for cultural heritage and sets a new standard for inclusive and ethical scientific practices.
The finding suggests that dinosaur-like creatures were present in Laurasia even earlier than previously believed. Using high-precision radioisotopic dating, scientists determined that Ahvaytum bahndooiveche lived in Laurasia about 230 million years ago. The species is estimated to be around the size of a chicken but with a long tail.
The discovery of Ahvaytum bahndooiveche has significant implications for our understanding of dinosaur evolution and the history of life on Earth. It encourages scientists to rethink established theories and promotes a more respectful approach to scientific discovery.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/north-americas-oldest-dinosaur-is-completely-rewriting-history