In November 2021, British scientists announced the discovery of a new species of dinosaur, which they named Brighstoneus simmondsi. This name was chosen to honor the place of its discovery, a village called Brightstone. The uncovering of this prehistoric creature provides valuable insights into the diversity of dinosaurs that once roamed the Earth.
Discovery and Naming
The remains of Brighstoneus simmondsi were first acquired in 1978, but it wasn’t until recent studies that the true identity of the species was understood. The fossils were unearthed next to those of Neovenator salerii, a carnivorous dinosaur known to have inhabited the same region. Despite their proximity, Brighstoneus simmondsi had a very different lifestyle, as it shares closer ties with the herbivorous dinosaur Iguanodon, indicating a varied ecosystem during the time they lived.
Physical Characteristics
Brighstoneus simmondsi was an impressive creature, measuring approximately 8 meters in length and weighing over 900 kilograms. The sheer size of this dinosaur suggests it was a dominant herbivore of its time, about 4 million years ago. Unlike its carnivorous neighbor, Neovenator salerii, Brighstoneus simmondsi’s anatomy was more suited to a plant-based diet, as reflected in its dental structure and skeletal features.
Distinction from Iguanodon
Initially, the fossilized bone of Brighstoneus simmondsi was thought to belong to the well-known Iguanodon due to similarities in skeletal structure. However, upon closer examination, significant differences became apparent, particularly in the skull and nasal area. Brighstoneus boasted a bulbous nose, and its upper jaw contained a secondary tooth as well as a medial primary ridge. The nasal bone itself expanded into swollen blisters behind the nostrils—distinctive traits that set it apart from Iguanodon and necessitated the classification of a new species.
Comparison with Mantellisaurus
The relationship between Brighstoneus simmondsi and another related dinosaur, Mantellisaurus, was also re-evaluated by scientists. In 2019, it was confirmed that these two species were indeed distinct from one another. Brighstoneus was much larger than Mantellisaurus, which weighed around 75 kilograms. Additionally, the forelimbs of Mantellisaurus were smaller in comparison to its hind limbs and only half their length, unlike the more robust and proportionate limbs of Brighstoneus simmondsi.
The discovery of Brighstoneus simmondsi not only adds a new member to the dinosaur family tree but also sheds light on the evolutionary pathways and ecological niches these ancient giants occupied. As paleontologists continue to study these fascinating creatures, our understanding of life millions of years ago becomes ever more detailed and complex.