Source link : https://earth-news.info/general/cellular-level-preservation-of-cutaneous-spikes-in-an-early-cretaceous-iguanodontian-dinosaur-nature/
A groundbreaking discovery has shed new light on the biology of Early Cretaceous iguanodontian dinosaurs, revealing unprecedented cellular-level preservation of their distinctive cutaneous spikes. Detailed in a recent Nature publication, this finding not only provides a rare glimpse into the skin structures of these ancient herbivores but also opens fresh avenues for understanding dinosaur integument and evolution. Scientists analyzing exceptionally preserved fossil specimens have unveiled microscopic details that challenge previous assumptions, offering a remarkable glimpse into how these dinosaurs’ spiky skin features were formed and maintained millions of years ago.
Cellular Preservation Reveals Intricate Structure of Dinosaur Skin Spikes
Recent discoveries from the Early Cretaceous period have uncovered remarkably well-preserved skin spikes from an iguanodontian dinosaur, offering an unprecedented glimpse into the microstructural details of these ancient integuments. Using advanced cellular preservation techniques, researchers identified intricate patterns within the spike tissues that suggest a complex arrangement of keratinized cells and underlying connective fibers. This level of preservation challenges previous assumptions about fossilization processes, opening new avenues for understanding dinosaur skin morphology at a microscopic scale.
Key findings from the study include:
- High-definition cellular architecture: Individual cell layers and…
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Author : earthnews
Publish date : 2026-02-18 22:20:00
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