Discovery of a Rare Species of Sauropod Dinosaur in Tanzania

 Dinosaurs have always been a point of curiosity for people all over the world. We don’t have the evidence of the exact origin and evolution of dinosaurs, that’s why it has been the subject of active research by scientists. Adding to the series Palaeontologists have identified a new species of giant dinosaur in south-western Tanzania. It is said that this new species of giant dinosaur roamed southern Africa some 70 million years ago in Tanzania. This new found Dinosaur is called Shingopana songwensis, the name is derived from the Swahili term "shingopana" means "wide neck." Some parts of the skeleton of this reptile was excavated in 2002; while additional portions of its skeleton including neck vertebrate, ribs, and part of the lower jaw were recovered later on. It is a member of the gigantic, long-necked sauropods. It is also found that Shingopana was closely related to titanosaurs of South America than any other species known to us. They roamed into a wider part of South America but diverted to the east and south. The bones that are found are damaged by the borings of ancient insects most probably shortly after its death. It is said that presence of bone-borings gives a CSI-like opportunity to study the skeleton and estimate the timing of death and burial. It will also help in getting evidence of ancient insects and complex food webs during dinosaur’s age.

By: Anita Aishvarya

Content: www.sciencedaily.com