New study identifies miniature T. rex as a separate species

Tyrannosaurus rex, the renowned predator of the Late Cretaceous era, has long been symbolised by its imposing size and formidable stature.

However, a recent study has delved into a smaller counterpart, Nanotyrannus lancensis, initially considered a juvenile T. rex, offering fresh insights into these miniature dinosaurs.

Originally labelled as young T. rexes, Nanotyrannus lancensis has been reinterpreted as a separate species.

Researchers from the University of Bath and the University of Chicago conducted a comprehensive analysis of the fossils of these smaller dinosaurs, challenging the conventional understanding of their classification.

Published in the journal Fossil Studies, the study examines distinctive features observed in Nanotyrannus lancensis, indicating its distinctiveness from the larger T. rex.

Dr. Nick Longrich, co-author of the study, said, "If they were young T. rex, they should be growing rapidly, gaining significant mass each year. However, our analysis revealed slower growth rates."

The research identified over 150 unique characteristics setting apart these smaller dinosaurs from T. rexes. Contrary to the traditional perception, the study revealed that Nanotyrannus lancensis showcased longer arms with more substantial claws compared to its larger counterpart.

Dr. Longrich emphasised the significance of these differences, stating, "This animal had notably longer arms and more formidable claws compared to T. rex. It represented a distinct creature—small, agile, and reliant on speed, in contrast to T. rex, which relied on its size and strength."

However, the study has sparked a debate within the scientific community. Holly Woodward, author of a prior study on these dinosaurs, expressed scepticism regarding the latest findings, suggesting that the 2020 study by Oklahoma State University researchers had categorised Nanotyrannus lancensis as smaller T. rexes.

"I am open to the idea of Nanotyrannus being a distinct species if supported by scientific evidence. However, I'm not fully convinced that their interpretation outweighs our previous findings," Woodward stated.

The study's conclusions challenge established notions about these miniature dinosaurs, prompting ongoing discussion and scrutiny within the scientific realm regarding their classification and relationship to the iconic T. rex.