Scientists said they have identified a new, unusual, chicken-sized dinosaur with flaming features never seen in the fossil record.
The new species, Ubirajara jubatus, lived about 110 million years ago in what is now northeastern Brazil, wearing a mane of long fur under its back and stiff strips – possibly made of keratin – protruding outward and back of its shoulders, according to a study published in the journal Cretaceous search.
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Researchers speculate that the ribbon-like features of this creature may have been used to attract friends or to terrify enemies, similar to the feathers of a peacock.
“What is particularly unusual about this beast is that there are two very long, possibly cross, bands on either side of its shoulders, which may have been used for display, to attract a partner, rivalry between males or to intimidate an enemy,” David Martell, professor at University of Portsmouth and author of the paper, He said.
“We can’t prove that the specimen is male, but given the disparity between male and female birds, it appears likely that the specimen was male, and also young, which is surprising given that more complex display capabilities are intended for an adult male,” said Martell. , We can imagine the dinosaur might have indulged in elaborate dance to show off its display structures.
The fossil was found in two stone tablets, and the researchers used X-rays to discover previously hidden structural elements and soft tissues, allowing scientists to build a clear picture of the animal’s features.
The portion of the tall, thick man that glides over the creature’s back has been kept almost intact. The study found that the dinosaurs’ mane was likely controlled by the muscles that allowed it to be lifted, similar to the way a porcupine raises its thorns when threatened. The animal’s arms were also covered with fur-like threads right up to its hands.
Researchers say Ubirajara jubatus was also the first non-avian dinosaur found in South America with feathers.
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