🦖 Some carnivorous dinosaurs preferred tearing their prey rather than crushing them

Researchers analyzed the bite force of 18 species of carnivorous dinosaurs using cutting-edge technologies like computed tomography and 3D scans. They discovered that the T. rex skull was designed to deliver fast and powerful bites, similar to those of modern crocodiles, allowing it to crush the bones of its prey. In contrast, other large bipedal predators, such as spinosaurs and allosaurs, had much weaker bites but were specialized in laceration and flesh-tearing techniques.


This biomechanical divergence shows that these dinosaurs followed distinct evolutionary paths. Andrew Rowe from the University of Bristol explains that tyrannosaurs developed robust skulls for crushing bites, while other lineages opted for lighter skulls adapted to different hunting strategies. This indicates ecological specialization, reducing direct competition between these giants and allowing for more harmonious coexistence in their habitats.

By comparing allosaurs to modern Komodo dragons, the authors illustrate how these dinosaurs could use weaker but effective bites to tear flesh. This approach contrasts with that of the T. rex, whose skull was optimized for strength. These findings challenge the idea of a universal cranial design for giant predators.

The absence of large bipedal carnivores today, since the mass extinction at the end of the Cretaceous, makes this study particularly valuable. It offers a unique glimpse into a vanished way of life and shows how evolution can shape multiple adaptations in response to the same environmental challenges. The results, published in Current Biology, highlight the richness of prehistoric ecosystems and predator interactions.

Evolution of feeding strategies

The evolution of feeding strategies in carnivorous dinosaurs illustrates how similarly sized species can develop very different predation methods. This depends on factors such as prey availability and environmental pressures.

For example, tyrannosaurs evolved powerful bites to exploit hard-shelled prey, while spinosaurs preferred fishing or hunting in aquatic environments, requiring different adaptations.

These specializations allowed for a diversification of roles in ecosystems, promoting the coexistence of multiple giant predators. Today, the study of these patterns helps paleontologists reconstruct prehistoric food chains and understand the dynamics of competition and cooperation.