🦕 This stegosaurus skull, the most complete ever discovered, rewrites history

An exceptionally preserved skull, discovered in northeastern Spain, sheds new light on the evolution of stegosaurs. This rare find allows paleontologists to rewrite part of the history of these iconic dinosaurs.

The specimen, attributed to Dacentrurus armatus, was unearthed in the province of Teruel, a site rich in Upper Jurassic fossils. Its remarkable preservation provides unprecedented anatomical details, while analyses suggest a revision of the evolutionary links between different stegosaurus species.

An exceptionally rare fossil

Stegosaurus skulls are extremely fragile and rarely fossilize. The one from Riodeva, dating back approximately 150 million years, includes essential parts such as the snout and braincase.

More than 200 bones accompany this discovery, including juvenile remains. This association allows for the study of the species' growth, a rare opportunity for these plated dinosaurs.

Researchers highlight the importance of this skull for understanding the anatomy and diet of Dacentrurus armatus. Its morphology differs slightly from its North American cousins, suggesting distinct ecological adaptations.

A new branch in the evolutionary tree

The study proposes the creation of a new group, the Neostegosauria, bringing together African, European, and Asian species. This classification is based on cranial characteristics rather than fragmentary postcranial elements.

The dorsal plates and tail spikes may have evolved independently in several lineages. The Riodeva skull helps trace these defensive or social adaptations.

This discovery reinforces Spain's key role in global paleontology. Excavations continue, promising further revelations about these lesser-known dinosaurs.