Spinosaurus mirabilis Discovered in Sahara Desert

Palaeontologists have uncovered a new dinosaur species in the remote Sahara Desert of Niger, shedding fresh light on Africa’s Cretaceous ecosystems. The species, named “Spinosaurus mirabilis”, lived around 95 million years ago and dominated ancient river systems as a top predator. The discovery adds a new dimension to understanding the evolution and ecological role of spinosaurids.

Fossils were recovered from the isolated Jenguebi site after a challenging expedition across desert terrain. Researchers identified three skulls and additional skeletal remains, confirming the existence of a second distinct species within the Spinosaurus lineage.

A Distinctive “Hell Heron” Predator

Measuring approximately 12 metres in length and weighing up to seven tonnes, “Spinosaurus mirabilis” rivalled other giant theropods in scale. However, its anatomy indicates specialised adaptation to riverine hunting.

Scientists have described it as a “hell heron” due to its wading lifestyle. Its nostrils were positioned further back on the skull, allowing it to partially submerge its snout while breathing. Interlocking conical teeth formed an effective trap for catching fish such as coelacanths.

Signature Scimitar Crest

The most striking feature of the species is a 20-inch blade-like crest atop its skull. Unlike its relative “Spinosaurus aegyptiacus”, first identified in 1915 from Egyptian fossils, the new species possessed a more elongated snout and longer hind limbs.

Researchers believe the crest was likely used for display rather than combat. Possibly covered in keratin and brightly coloured, it may have functioned in mate attraction or territorial signalling, playing a role in social behaviour.

Rethinking Spinosaurus Ecology

The inland location of the fossils challenges earlier hypotheses that Spinosaurus was a fully aquatic, ocean-swimming predator. The new evidence suggests these dinosaurs were semi-aquatic waders inhabiting freshwater river systems rather than open seas.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Cretaceous Period lasted from about 145 to 66 million years ago.
• Spinosaurids were theropod dinosaurs adapted to semi-aquatic lifestyles.
• Coelacanths are ancient lobe-finned fishes often termed “living fossils.”
• The Sahara Desert once supported riverine and forested ecosystems.

Significance of the Discovery

The find underscores the rich prehistoric biodiversity of North Africa and highlights the evolving understanding of dinosaur adaptation. By revealing extreme piscivorous traits and semi-aquatic specialisation, “Spinosaurus mirabilis” broadens scientific insight into predator diversity during the Cretaceous era.