A recent discovery in Mongolia has revealed a mid-sized dinosaur known as the 'Dragon Prince,' which is now recognized as a crucial forerunner of the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex. This finding sheds light on the complex family tree of these ancient predators.

Named Khankhuuluu mongoliensis, this dinosaur lived approximately 86 million years ago during the Cretaceous Period. It served as a direct precursor to the tyrannosaur lineage, which included massive carnivorous dinosaurs like T. rex. Khankhuuluu existed about 20 million years before the emergence of Tyrannosaurus.

Measuring around 13 feet in length and weighing 1,600 pounds, Khankhuuluu was a bipedal dinosaur with a long snout filled with sharp teeth. Unlike the robust T. rex, its body structure suggests that Khankhuuluu was agile and likely hunted smaller prey such as oviraptorosaurs and ornithomimosaurs. In comparison, the largest known T. rex specimen reached a length of 40-1/2 feet.

The name 'Khankhuuluu' translates to 'Dragon Prince' in Mongolian, while 'Tyrannosaurus rex' means 'tyrant king of the lizards.'

According to paleontologist Darla Zelenitsky from the University of Calgary, Khankhuuluu shared many physical characteristics with tyrannosaurs but lacked certain defining traits, indicating its status as a forerunner rather than a direct member of the lineage.

The study, published in the journal Nature, revealed that Khankhuuluu played a vital role in the evolutionary history of tyrannosaurs. This dinosaur bridges the gap between smaller predecessors of tyrannosaurs and the later giant apex predators, showcasing the transformation of these carnivores over time.

By studying fossils of two Khankhuuluu specimens unearthed in the 1970s, researchers were able to reconstruct its anatomy, including its skull, limbs, tail, and back bones. This comprehensive analysis provided insights into the evolutionary journey of tyrannosaurs.

Khankhuuluu's discovery has reshaped the understanding of tyrannosaur family history, clarifying the relationships between different species within this group. This dinosaur's existence highlights the diverse paths that led to the emergence of T. rex and its dominance in the late Cretaceous period.

Source: Inquirer.net