Overview
- Researchers counted growth rings in the hyoid of the Cleveland Museum holotype, indicating roughly 15–18 years old and fully or nearly grown.
- The team validated hyoid microstructure as an age indicator by matching results in ostriches, alligators, caimans and dinosaur growth series at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
- The finding follows an Oct. 30 study that used different bones and anatomical traits to independently conclude Nanotyrannus is distinct from Tyrannosaurus rex.
- The confirmation reshapes views of Late Cretaceous ecosystems, with adult Nanotyrannus coexisting with T. rex and likely competing with juvenile tyrannosaurs.
- Authors describe Nanotyrannus as a smaller, agile predator about 5 meters long and roughly 700 kilograms, contrasting with the stockier, stronger T. rex.