1
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Dalman SG, Loewen MA, Pyron RA, Jasinski SE, Malinzak DE, Lucas SG, Fiorillo AR, Currie PJ, Longrich NR. A giant tyrannosaur from the Campanian-Maastrichtian of southern North America and the evolution of tyrannosaurid gigantism. Sci Rep 2024; 13:22124. [PMID: 38212342 PMCID: PMC10784284 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47011-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Tyrannosaurid dinosaurs dominated as predators in the Late Cretaceous of Laurasia, culminating in the evolution of the giant Tyrannosaurus rex, both the last and largest tyrannosaurid. Where and when Tyrannosaurini (T. rex and kin) originated remains unclear. Competing hypotheses place tyrannosaurin origins in Asia, or western North America (Laramidia). We report a new tyrannosaurin, Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, from the Campanian-Maastrichtian Hall Lake Formation of New Mexico, based on a fossil previously referred to T. rex. T. mcraeensis predates T. rex by ~ 6-7 million years, yet rivaled it in size. Phylogenetic analysis recovers T. mcraeensis as sister to T. rex and suggests Tyrannosaurini originated in southern Laramidia. Evolution of giant tyrannosaurs in southern North America, alongside giant ceratopsians, hadrosaurs, and titanosaurs suggests large-bodied dinosaurs evolved at low latitudes in North America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian G Dalman
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain Road N.W., Albuquerque, NM, 87104, USA
| | - Mark A Loewen
- Department of Geology and Geophysics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Natural History Museum of Utah, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - R Alexander Pyron
- Department of Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, 2023 G St. NW, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Steven E Jasinski
- Department of Environmental Science and Sustainability, Harrisburg University, 326 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, USA
| | - D Edward Malinzak
- Pennsylvania State University, Lehigh Valley, Center Valley, PA, 18034, USA
| | - Spencer G Lucas
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain Road N.W., Albuquerque, NM, 87104, USA
| | - Anthony R Fiorillo
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, 1801 Mountain Road N.W., Albuquerque, NM, 87104, USA
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Nicholas R Longrich
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
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2
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Therrien F, Zelenitsky DK, Tanaka K, Voris JT, Erickson GM, Currie PJ, DeBuhr CL, Kobayashi Y. Exceptionally preserved stomach contents of a young tyrannosaurid reveal an ontogenetic dietary shift in an iconic extinct predator. Sci Adv 2023; 9:eadi0505. [PMID: 38064561 PMCID: PMC10846869 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi0505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Tyrannosaurids were large carnivorous dinosaurs that underwent major changes in skull robusticity and body proportions as they grew, suggesting that they occupied different ecological niches during their life span. Although adults commonly fed on dinosaurian megaherbivores, the diet of juvenile tyrannosaurids is largely unknown. Here, we describe a remarkable specimen of a juvenile Gorgosaurus libratus that preserves the articulated hindlimbs of two yearling caenagnathid dinosaurs inside its abdominal cavity. The prey were selectively dismembered and consumed in two separate feeding events. This predator-prey association provides direct evidence of an ontogenetic dietary shift in tyrannosaurids. Juvenile individuals may have hunted small and young dinosaurs until they reached a size when, to satisfy energy requirements, they transitioned to feeding on dinosaurian megaherbivores. Tyrannosaurids occupied both mesopredator and apex predator roles during their life span, a factor that may have been key to their evolutionary success.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Darla K. Zelenitsky
- Department of Earth, Energy, and Environment, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kohei Tanaka
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Jared T. Voris
- Department of Earth, Energy, and Environment, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gregory M. Erickson
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christopher L. DeBuhr
- Department of Earth, Energy, and Environment, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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3
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Jasinski SE, Sullivan RM, Carter AM, Johnson EH, Dalman SG, Zariwala J, Currie PJ. Osteology and reassessment of Dineobellator notohesperus, a southern eudromaeosaur (Theropoda: Dromaeosauridae: Eudromaeosauria) from the latest Cretaceous of New Mexico. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2023; 306:1712-1756. [PMID: 36342817 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Dromaeosaurids (Theropoda: Dromaeosauridae), a group of dynamic, swift predators, have a sparse fossil record, particularly at the end of the Cretaceous Period. The recently described Dineobellator notohesperus, consisting of a partial skeleton from the Upper Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) of New Mexico, is the only diagnostic dromaeosaurid to be recovered from the latest Cretaceous of the southwestern United States. Reinterpreted and newly described material include several caudal vertebrae, portions of the right radius and pubis, and an additional ungual, tentatively inferred to be from manual digit III. Unique features, particularly those of the humerus, unguals, and caudal vertebrae, distinguish D. notohesperus from other known dromaeosaurids. This material indicates different physical attributes among dromaeosaurids, such as use of the forearms, strength in the hands and feet, and mobility of the tail. Several bones in the holotype exhibit abnormal growth and are inferred to be pathologic features resulting from an injury or disease. Similar lengths of the humerus imply Dineobellator and Deinonychus were of similar size, at least regarding length and/or height, although the more gracile nature of the humerus implies Dineobellator was a more lightly built predator. A new phylogenetic analysis recovers D. notohesperus as a dromaeosaurid outside other previously known and named clades. Theropod composition of the Naashoibito Member theropod fauna is like those found in the more northern Late Cretaceous North American ecosystems. Differences in tooth morphologies among recovered theropod teeth from the Naashoibito Member also implies D. notohesperus was not the only dromaeosaurid present in its environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Jasinski
- Department of Environmental Science and Sustainability, Harrisburg University, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA
- Don Sundquist Center of Excellence in Paleontology, Johnson City, Tennessee, USA
| | - Robert M Sullivan
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Aja M Carter
- Penn Engineering - GRASP Laboratory, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Erynn H Johnson
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Paleontological Research Institution, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Sebastian G Dalman
- New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Juned Zariwala
- Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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4
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Farlow JO, Coroian D, Currie PJ, Foster JR, Mallon JC, Therrien F. "Dragons" on the landscape: Modeling the abundance of large carnivorous dinosaurs of the Upper Jurassic Morrison Formation (USA) and the Upper Cretaceous Dinosaur Park Formation (Canada). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2023; 306:1669-1696. [PMID: 35815600 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Counts of the number of skeletal specimens of "adult" megaherbivores and large theropods from the Morrison and Dinosaur Park formations-if not biased by taphonomic artifacts-suggest that the big meat-eaters were more abundant, relative to the number of big plant-eaters, than one would expect on the basis of the relative abundance of large carnivores and herbivores in modern mammalian faunas. Models of megaherbivore population density (number of individuals per square kilometer) that attempt to take into account ecosystem productivity, the size structure of megaherbivore populations, and individual megaherbivore energy requirements, when combined with values of the large theropod/megaherbivore abundance ratio, suggest that large theropods may have been more abundant on the landscape than estimates extrapolated from the population density versus body mass relationship of mammalian carnivores. Models of the meat production of megaherbivore populations and the meat requirements of "adult" large theropods suggest that herbivore productivity would have been insufficient to support the associated number of individuals of "adult" large theropods, unless the herbivore production/biomass ratio was substantially higher, and/or the large theropod meat requirement markedly lower, than expectations based on modern mammals. Alternatively, or in addition to one or both of these other factors, large theropods likely included dinosaurs other than megaherbivores as significant components of their diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- James O Farlow
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA
| | - Dan Coroian
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - John R Foster
- Utah Field House of Natural History State Park, Vernal, Utah, USA
| | - Jordan C Mallon
- Beaty Centre for Species Discovery and Palaeobiology Section, Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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5
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Mohr SR, Acorn JH, Currie PJ. Putative avian teeth from the Late Cretaceous of Alberta, Canada, are more likely from crocodilians. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283581. [PMID: 36976814 PMCID: PMC10047536 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Isolated teeth, previously referred to Aves, are more common than other bird fossils from the Late Cretaceous of Alberta. However, there are no known morphological synapomorphies that distinguish isolated bird teeth, and features of these teeth are generally shared with those of non-avian theropods and crocodilians. Here, specimens ranging from Late Santonian to Late Maastrichtian in age are described and qualitatively categorized into morphotypes, most of which strongly resemble teeth of extant juvenile and some fossil crocodilians. Variation within this sample of teeth may therefore reflect the heterodont dentition of crocodilians, rather than avian species diversity. Quantitative analysis Principal Component Analysis was mostly uninformative, with limited overlap between putative avian teeth and those of known Cretaceous birds, crocodilians, and non-avian theropods. The reassignment of these putative avian teeth to Crocodylia has important ramifications for our understanding of the evolutionary history of Cretaceous birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney R Mohr
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - John H Acorn
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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6
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Lee S, Lee YN, Currie PJ, Sissons R, Park JY, Kim SH, Barsbold R, Tsogtbaatar K. A non-avian dinosaur with a streamlined body exhibits potential adaptations for swimming. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1185. [PMID: 36456823 PMCID: PMC9715538 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04119-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Streamlining a body is a major adaptation for aquatic animals to move efficiently in the water. Whereas diving birds are well known to have streamlined bodies, such body shapes have not been documented in non-avian dinosaurs. It is primarily because most known non-avian theropods are terrestrial, barring a few exceptions. However, clear evidence of streamlined bodies is absent even in the purported semiaquatic groups. Here we report a new theropod, Natovenator polydontus gen. et sp. nov., from the Upper Cretaceous of Mongolia. The new specimen includes a well-preserved skeleton with several articulated dorsal ribs that are posterolaterally oriented to streamline the body as in diving birds. Additionally, the widely arched proximal rib shafts reflect a dorsoventrally compressed ribcage like aquatic reptiles. Its body shape suggests that Natovenator was a potentially capable swimming predator, and the streamlined body evolved independently in separate lineages of theropod dinosaurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungjin Lee
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yuong-Nam Lee
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Philip J. Currie
- grid.17089.370000 0001 2190 316XDepartment of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB Canada
| | - Robin Sissons
- grid.17089.370000 0001 2190 316XDepartment of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB Canada
| | - Jin-Young Park
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su-Hwan Kim
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Rinchen Barsbold
- grid.425564.40000 0004 0587 3863Institute of Paleontology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Khishigjav Tsogtbaatar
- grid.425564.40000 0004 0587 3863Institute of Paleontology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
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7
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Moore BRS, Roloson MJ, Currie PJ, Ryan MJ, Patterson RT, Mallon JC. The appendicular myology of Stegoceras validum (Ornithischia: Pachycephalosauridae) and implications for the head-butting hypothesis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268144. [PMID: 36048811 PMCID: PMC9436104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we use an exceptional skeleton of the pachycephalosaur Stegoceras validum (UALVP 2) to inform a comprehensive appendicular muscle reconstruction of the animal, with the goal of better understanding the functional morphology of the pachycephalosaur postcranial skeleton. We find that S. validum possessed a conservative forelimb musculature, particularly in comparison to early saurischian bipeds. By contrast, the pelvic and hind limb musculature are more derived, reflecting peculiarities of the underlying skeletal anatomy. The iliotibialis, ischiocaudalis, and caudofemoralis muscles have enlarged attachment sites and the caudofemoralis has greater leverage owing to the distal displacement of the fourth trochanter along the femur. These larger muscles, in combination with the wide pelvis and stout hind limbs, produced a stronger, more stable pelvic structure that would have proved advantageous during hypothesized intraspecific head-butting contests. The pelvis may have been further stabilized by enlarged sacroiliac ligaments, which stemmed from the unique medial iliac flange of the pachycephalosaurs. Although the pubis of UALVP 2 is not preserved, the pubes of other pachycephalosaurs are highly reduced. The puboischiofemoralis musculature was likely also reduced accordingly, and compensated for by the aforementioned improved pelvic musculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan R. S. Moore
- Ottawa Carleton Geoscience Center and Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Mathew J. Roloson
- Ottawa Carleton Geoscience Center and Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Michael J. Ryan
- Ottawa Carleton Geoscience Center and Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Beaty Centre for Species Discovery and Palaeobiology section, Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - R. Timothy Patterson
- Ottawa Carleton Geoscience Center and Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jordan C. Mallon
- Ottawa Carleton Geoscience Center and Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Beaty Centre for Species Discovery and Palaeobiology section, Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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8
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Hendrickx C, Bell PR, Pittman M, Milner ARC, Cuesta E, O'Connor J, Loewen M, Currie PJ, Mateus O, Kaye TG, Delcourt R. Morphology and distribution of scales, dermal ossifications, and other non-feather integumentary structures in non-avialan theropod dinosaurs. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2022; 97:960-1004. [PMID: 34991180 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Modern birds are typified by the presence of feathers, complex evolutionary innovations that were already widespread in the group of theropod dinosaurs (Maniraptoriformes) that include crown Aves. Squamous or scaly reptilian-like skin is, however, considered the plesiomorphic condition for theropods and dinosaurs more broadly. Here, we review the morphology and distribution of non-feathered integumentary structures in non-avialan theropods, covering squamous skin and naked skin as well as dermal ossifications. The integumentary record of non-averostran theropods is limited to tracks, which ubiquitously show a covering of tiny reticulate scales on the plantar surface of the pes. This is consistent also with younger averostran body fossils, which confirm an arthral arrangement of the digital pads. Among averostrans, squamous skin is confirmed in Ceratosauria (Carnotaurus), Allosauroidea (Allosaurus, Concavenator, Lourinhanosaurus), Compsognathidae (Juravenator), and Tyrannosauroidea (Santanaraptor, Albertosaurus, Daspletosaurus, Gorgosaurus, Tarbosaurus, Tyrannosaurus), whereas dermal ossifications consisting of sagittate and mosaic osteoderms are restricted to Ceratosaurus. Naked, non-scale bearing skin is found in the contentious tetanuran Sciurumimus, ornithomimosaurians (Ornithomimus) and possibly tyrannosauroids (Santanaraptor), and also on the patagia of scansoriopterygids (Ambopteryx, Yi). Scales are surprisingly conservative among non-avialan theropods compared to some dinosaurian groups (e.g. hadrosaurids); however, the limited preservation of tegument on most specimens hinders further interrogation. Scale patterns vary among and/or within body regions in Carnotaurus, Concavenator and Juravenator, and include polarised, snake-like ventral scales on the tail of the latter two genera. Unusual but more uniformly distributed patterning also occurs in Tyrannosaurus, whereas feature scales are present only in Albertosaurus and Carnotaurus. Few theropods currently show compelling evidence for the co-occurrence of scales and feathers (e.g. Juravenator, Sinornithosaurus), although reticulate scales were probably retained on the mani and pedes of many theropods with a heavy plumage. Feathers and filamentous structures appear to have replaced widespread scaly integuments in maniraptorans. Theropod skin, and that of dinosaurs more broadly, remains a virtually untapped area of study and the appropriation of commonly used techniques in other palaeontological fields to the study of skin holds great promise for future insights into the biology, taphonomy and relationships of these extinct animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Hendrickx
- Unidad Ejecutora Lillo, CONICET-Fundación Miguel Lillo, 251 Miguel Lillo, San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, 4000, Argentina
| | - Phil R Bell
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Michael Pittman
- Vertebrate Palaeontology Laboratory, Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR, China.,Department of Earth Sciences, University College London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew R C Milner
- St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm, 2180 East Riverside Drive, St. George, UT, U.S.A
| | - Elena Cuesta
- Bayerische Staatssammlung für Paläontologie und Geologie, Richard-Wagner-Str. 10, Munich, 80333, Germany
| | - Jingmai O'Connor
- Field Museum of Natural History, 1400 S Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL, 60605, U.S.A
| | - Mark Loewen
- Department of Geology and Geophysics, University of Utah, Frederick Albert Sutton Building, 115 South 1460 East, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, U.S.A.,Natural History Museum of Utah, 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, U.S.A
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Octávio Mateus
- GeoBioTec, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Caparica, Portugal.,Museu da Lourinhã, 95 Rua João Luis de Moura, Lourinhã, 2530-158, Portugal
| | - Thomas G Kaye
- Foundation for Scientific Advancement, 7023 Alhambra Dr., Sierra Vista, AZ, 85650, U.S.A
| | - Rafael Delcourt
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Instituto de Geociências, Cidade Universitária, Rua Carlos Gomes, 250, Campinas, SP, 13083-855, Brazil
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Benton MJ, Currie PJ, Xu X. A thing with feathers. Curr Biol 2021; 31:R1406-R1409. [PMID: 34752760 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.09.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Michael Benton and colleagues reminisce about the discovery of Sinosauripteryx, the first feathered dinosaur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Benton
- School of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK.
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta 116 Street and 85 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Xing Xu
- IVPP, 142 Xizhimenwai Street, PO Box 643, Beijing 100044, China
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10
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Funston GF, Currie PJ, Tsogtbaatar C, Khishigjav T. A partial oviraptorosaur skeleton suggests low caenagnathid diversity in the Late Cretaceous Nemegt Formation of Mongolia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254564. [PMID: 34252154 PMCID: PMC8274908 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Nemegt Formation of the Gobi Desert of Mongolia has produced one of the most abundant and diverse oviraptorosaur records globally. However, the caenagnathid component of this fauna remains poorly known. Two caenagnathid taxa are currently recognized from the Nemegt Formation: Elmisaurus rarus and Nomingia gobiensis. Because these taxa are known from mostly non-overlapping material, there are concerns that they could represent the same animal. A partial, weathered caenagnathid skeleton discovered adjacent to the holotype quarry of Nomingia gobiensis is referable to Elmisaurus rarus, revealing more of the morphology of the cranium, mandible, pectoral girdle, and pubis. Despite metatarsals clearly exhibiting autapomorphies of Elmisaurus rarus, overlapping elements are identical to those of Nomingia gobiensis, and add to a growing body of evidence that these taxa represent a single morphotype. In the absence of any positive evidence for two caenagnathid taxa in the Nemegt Formation, Nomingia gobiensis is best regarded as a junior synonym of Elmisaurus rarus. Low caenagnathid diversity in the Nemegt Formation may reflect broader coexistence patterns with other oviraptorosaur families, particularly oviraptorids. In contrast to North America, competition with the exceptionally diverse oviraptorids may have restricted caenagnathids to marginal roles in Late Cretaceous Asian ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory F. Funston
- School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Chinzorig Tsogtbaatar
- NC Museum of Natural Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
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11
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Condamine FL, Guinot G, Benton MJ, Currie PJ. Dinosaur biodiversity declined well before the asteroid impact, influenced by ecological and environmental pressures. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3833. [PMID: 34188028 PMCID: PMC8242047 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23754-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The question why non-avian dinosaurs went extinct 66 million years ago (Ma) remains unresolved because of the coarseness of the fossil record. A sudden extinction caused by an asteroid is the most accepted hypothesis but it is debated whether dinosaurs were in decline or not before the impact. We analyse the speciation-extinction dynamics for six key dinosaur families, and find a decline across dinosaurs, where diversification shifted to a declining-diversity pattern ~76 Ma. We investigate the influence of ecological and physical factors, and find that the decline of dinosaurs was likely driven by global climate cooling and herbivorous diversity drop. The latter is likely due to hadrosaurs outcompeting other herbivores. We also estimate that extinction risk is related to species age during the decline, suggesting a lack of evolutionary novelty or adaptation to changing environments. These results support an environmentally driven decline of non-avian dinosaurs well before the asteroid impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabien L Condamine
- Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution de Montpellier (Université de Montpellier | CNRS|IRD|EPHE), Montpellier, France.
| | - Guillaume Guinot
- Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution de Montpellier (Université de Montpellier | CNRS|IRD|EPHE), Montpellier, France
| | - Michael J Benton
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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12
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Park JY, Lee YN, Currie PJ, Ryan MJ, Bell P, Sissons R, Koppelhus EB, Barsbold R, Lee S, Kim SH. A new ankylosaurid skeleton from the Upper Cretaceous Baruungoyot Formation of Mongolia: its implications for ankylosaurid postcranial evolution. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4101. [PMID: 33737515 PMCID: PMC7973727 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83568-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
A new articulated postcranial specimen of an indeterminate ankylosaurid dinosaur from the Upper Cretaceous (middle-upper Campanian) Baruungoyot Formation from Hermiin Tsav, southern Gobi Desert, Mongolia includes twelve dorsal vertebrae, ribs, pectoral girdles, forelimbs, pelvic girdles, hind limbs, and free osteoderms. The new specimen shows that Asian ankylosaurids evolved rigid bodies with a decreased number of pedal phalanges. It also implies that there were at least two forms of flank armor within Ankylosauridae, one with spine-like osteoderms and the other with keeled rhomboidal osteoderms. Unique anatomical features related to digging are present in Ankylosauridae, such as dorsoventrally flattened and fusiform body shapes, extensively fused series of vertebrae, anteroposteriorly broadened dorsal ribs, a robust humerus with a well-developed deltopectoral crest, a short robust ulna with a well-developed olecranon process, a trowel-like manus, and decreased numbers of pedal phalanges. Although not fossorial, ankylosaurids were likely able to dig the substrate, taking advantage of it for self-defence and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Young Park
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826 South Korea
| | - Yuong-Nam Lee
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826 South Korea
| | - Philip J. Currie
- grid.17089.37Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405 Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9 Canada
| | - Michael J. Ryan
- grid.34428.390000 0004 1936 893XDepartment of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, 2125 Herzberg Building, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6 Canada ,grid.450544.40000 0004 0448 6933Department of Palaeobiology, Canadian Museum of Nature, Station ‘D’, P.O. Box 3443, Ottawa, ON K1P 6P4 Canada
| | - Phil Bell
- grid.1020.30000 0004 1936 7371Palaeoscience Research Centre, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351 Australia
| | - Robin Sissons
- grid.17089.37Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405 Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9 Canada
| | - Eva B. Koppelhus
- grid.17089.37Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405 Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9 Canada
| | - Rinchen Barsbold
- grid.425564.40000 0004 0587 3863Institute of Paleontology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Box-46/650, Ulaanbaatar, 15160 Mongolia
| | - Sungjin Lee
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826 South Korea
| | - Su-Hwan Kim
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826 South Korea
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13
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Rhodes MM, Henderson DM, Currie PJ. Maniraptoran pelvic musculature highlights evolutionary patterns in theropod locomotion on the line to birds. PeerJ 2021; 9:e10855. [PMID: 33717681 PMCID: PMC7937347 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Locomotion is a fundamental aspect of palaeobiology and often investigated by comparing osteological structures and proportions. Previous studies document a stepwise accumulation of avian-like features in theropod dinosaurs that accelerates in the clade Maniraptora. However, the soft tissues that influenced the skeleton offer another perspective on locomotory adaptations. Examination of the pelvis for osteological correlates of hind limb and tail musculature allowed reconstruction of primary locomotory muscles across theropods and their closest extant relatives. Additionally, the areas of pelvic muscle origins were quantified to measure relative differences within and between taxa, to compare morphological features associated with cursoriality, and offer insight into the evolution of locomotor modules. Locomotory inferences based on myology often corroborate those based on osteology, although they occasionally conflict and indicate greater complexity than previously appreciated. Maniraptoran pelvic musculature underscores previous studies noting the multifaceted nature of cursoriality and suggests that a more punctuated step in caudal decoupling occurred at or near the base of Maniraptora.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew M Rhodes
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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14
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Sellés AG, Vila B, Brusatte SL, Currie PJ, Galobart À. A fast-growing basal troodontid (Dinosauria: Theropoda) from the latest Cretaceous of Europe. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4855. [PMID: 33649418 PMCID: PMC7921422 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83745-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
A characteristic fauna of dinosaurs and other vertebrates inhabited the end-Cretaceous European archipelago, some of which were dwarves or had other unusual features likely related to their insular habitats. Little is known, however, about the contemporary theropod dinosaurs, as they are represented mostly by teeth or other fragmentary fossils. A new isolated theropod metatarsal II, from the latest Maastrichtian of Spain (within 200,000 years of the mass extinction) may represent a jinfengopterygine troodontid, the first reported from Europe. Comparisons with other theropods and phylogenetic analyses reveal an autapomorphic foramen that distinguishes it from all other troodontids, supporting its identification as a new genus and species, Tamarro insperatus. Bone histology shows that it was an actively growing subadult when it died but may have had a growth pattern in which it grew rapidly in early ontogeny and attained a subadult size quickly. We hypothesize that it could have migrated from Asia to reach the Ibero-Armorican island no later than Cenomanian or during the Maastrichtian dispersal events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert G Sellés
- Institut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafon, Edifici Z, C/ de les columnes s/n, Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain. .,Museu de la Conca Dellà, 25650, Lleida, Isona, Spain.
| | - Bernat Vila
- Institut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafon, Edifici Z, C/ de les columnes s/n, Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.,Museu de la Conca Dellà, 25650, Lleida, Isona, Spain
| | | | - Philip J Currie
- University of Alberta, CW-405 Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Àngel Galobart
- Institut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafon, Edifici Z, C/ de les columnes s/n, Campus de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.,Museu de la Conca Dellà, 25650, Lleida, Isona, Spain
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15
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Chinzorig T, Kobayashi Y, Tsogtbaatar K, Currie PJ, Watabe M, Barsbold R. Author Correction: First Ornithomimid (Theropoda, Ornithomimosauria) from the Upper Cretaceous Djadokhta Formation of Tögrögiin Shiree, Mongolia. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1494. [PMID: 31988318 PMCID: PMC6985248 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58481-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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16
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Funston GF, Chinzorig T, Tsogtbaatar K, Kobayashi Y, Sullivan C, Currie PJ. A new two-fingered dinosaur sheds light on the radiation of Oviraptorosauria. R Soc Open Sci 2020; 7:201184. [PMID: 33204472 PMCID: PMC7657903 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.201184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Late Cretaceous trends in Asian dinosaur diversity are poorly understood, but recent discoveries have documented a radiation of oviraptorosaur theropods in China and Mongolia. However, little work has addressed the factors that facilitated this diversification. A new oviraptorid from the Late Cretaceous of Mongolia sheds light on the evolution of the forelimb, which appears to have played a role in the radiation of oviraptorosaurs. Surprisingly, the reduced arm has only two functional digits, highlighting a previously unrecognized occurrence of digit loss in theropods. Phylogenetic analysis shows that the onset of this reduction coincides with the radiation of heyuannine oviraptorids, following dispersal from southern China into the Gobi region. This suggests expansion into a new niche in the Gobi region, which relied less on the elongate, grasping forelimbs inherited by oviraptorosaurs. Variation in forelimb length and manus morphology provides another example of niche partitioning in oviraptorosaurs, which may have made possible their incredible diversity in the latest Cretaceous of Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory F. Funston
- School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tsogtbaatar Chinzorig
- Hokkaido University Museum, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Institute of Paleontology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | | | | | - Corwin Sullivan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum, Wembley, Alberta, Canada
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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17
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Patterson TJ, Currie PJ, Beck J, Spence RAJ, Spence GM. A systematic review of viral transmission risk to healthcare staff comparing laparoscopic and open surgery. Surgeon 2020; 18:e72-e77. [PMID: 32690463 PMCID: PMC7366997 DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2020.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Throughout the United Kingdom, there have been sweeping changes to the practice of medicine due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the surgical speciality, there have been changes to both elective and emergency practice. Concern regarding potential aerosolisation during invasive procedures have been raised – including the use of pneumoperitoneum to facilitate laparoscopy. The aim of this study is to systematically review the data available to date regarding the potential risk posed to theatre staff by laparoscopy. Method A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Only publications in peer-reviewed journals were considered. PubMed, Ovid Embase, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library were searched. The search period was between 1st January 1980 and 27th April 2020. Bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. Results 4209 records were identified, resulting in 9 unique studies being selected. The included studies examined viral DNA aerosoliation generated by electrosurgery and CO2 laser ablation, with one study examining viral DNA aerosolisation following laparoscopy. Each of these demonstrated that viral DNA (Hepatitis B Virus and Human Papilloma Virus) was detectable in the surgical smoke plume. Conclusion The data and analysis reported in this study reflect the most up-to-date evidence available for the surgeon to assess risk towards healthcare staff. It was constrained by heterogeneity of reporting for several outcomes and lack of comparable studies. There is currently insufficient data to recommend open or a minimally invasive surgical approach with regard to theatre team safety in the COVID-19 era. This study has shown that viral DNA may be detected in electrosurgical smoke. There is currently insufficient data to recommend open or a minimally invasive approach. To date no studies have examined COVID19 viral presence in electrosurgical smoke.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Patterson
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, Northern Ireland, UK.
| | - P J Currie
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - J Beck
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - R A J Spence
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - G M Spence
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, Northern Ireland, UK
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18
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Funston GF, Currie PJ, Ryan MJ, Dong ZM. Birdlike growth and mixed-age flocks in avimimids (Theropoda, Oviraptorosauria). Sci Rep 2019; 9:18816. [PMID: 31827127 PMCID: PMC6906459 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55038-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Avimimids were unusual, birdlike oviraptorosaurs from the Late Cretaceous of Asia. Initially enigmatic, new information has ameliorated the understanding of their anatomy, phylogenetic position, and behaviour. A monodominant bonebed from the Nemegt Formation of Mongolia showed that some avimimids were gregarious, but the site is unusual in the apparent absence of juveniles. Here, a second monodominant avimimid bonebed is described from the Iren Dabasu Formation of northern China. Elements recovered include numerous vertebrae and portions of the forelimbs and hindlimbs, representing a minimum of six individuals. Histological sampling of two tibiotarsi from the bonebed reveals rapid growth early in ontogeny followed by unexpectedly early onset of fusion and limited subsequent growth. This indicates that avimimids grew rapidly to adult size, like most extant birds but contrasting other small theropod dinosaurs. The combination of adults and juveniles in the Iren Dabasu bonebed assemblage provides evidence of mixed-age flocking in avimimids and the onset of fusion in young individuals suggests that some of the individuals in the Nemegt Formation bonebed may have been juveniles. Regardless, these individuals were likely functionally analogous to adults, and this probably facilitated mixed-age flocking by reducing ontogenetic niche shift in avimimids.
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Affiliation(s)
- G F Funston
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
| | - P J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - M J Ryan
- Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Z-M Dong
- Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Beijing, China
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19
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Kellner AWA, Caldwell MW, Holgado B, Vecchia FMD, Nohra R, Sayão JM, Currie PJ. First complete pterosaur from the Afro-Arabian continent: insight into pterodactyloid diversity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17875. [PMID: 31784545 PMCID: PMC6884559 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54042-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite being known from every continent, the geological record of pterosaurs, the first group of vertebrates to develop powered flight, is very uneven, with only a few deposits accounting for the vast majority of specimens and almost half of the taxonomic diversity. Among the regions that stand out for the greatest gaps of knowledge regarding these flying reptiles, is the Afro-Arabian continent, which has yielded only a small number of very fragmentary and incomplete materials. Here we fill part of that gap and report on the most complete pterosaur recovered from this continent, more specifically from the Late Cretaceous (~95 mya) Hjoûla Lagerstätte of Lebanon. This deposit is known since the Middle Ages for the exquisitely preserved fishes and invertebrates, but not for tetrapods, which are exceedingly rare. Mimodactylus libanensis gen. et sp. nov. differs from the other Afro-Arabian pterosaur species named to date and is closely related to the Chinese species Haopterus gracilis, forming a new clade of derived toothed pterosaurs. Mimodactylidae clade nov. groups species that are related to Istiodactylidae, jointly designated as Istiodactyliformes (clade nov.). Istiodactyliforms were previously documented only in Early Cretaceous sites from Europe and Asia, with Mimodactylus libanensis the first record in Gondwana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander W A Kellner
- Laboratory of Systematics and Taphonomy of Fossil Vertebrates, Departamento de Geologia e Paleontologia, Museu Nacional/Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Quinta da Boa Vista s/n, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, 20940-040, Brazil.
| | - Michael W Caldwell
- Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G2E9, Canada
| | - Borja Holgado
- Laboratory of Systematics and Taphonomy of Fossil Vertebrates, Departamento de Geologia e Paleontologia, Museu Nacional/Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Quinta da Boa Vista s/n, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, 20940-040, Brazil
- Institut Català de Paleontologia 'Miquel Crusafont' (ICP), C/de les Columnes, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia, E08193, Spain
| | - Fabio M Dalla Vecchia
- Institut Català de Paleontologia 'Miquel Crusafont' (ICP), C/de les Columnes, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Catalonia, E08193, Spain
| | - Roy Nohra
- Expo Hâqel, Hâqel, Main Road, Byblos, Mount Lebanon, 14014354, Lebanon
| | - Juliana M Sayão
- Laboratório de Biodiversidade do Nordeste, Centro Acadêmico de Vitória, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco.Vitória de Santo Antão, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G2E9, Canada
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20
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Barbi M, Bell PR, Fanti F, Dynes JJ, Kolaceke A, Buttigieg J, Coulson IM, Currie PJ. Integumentary structure and composition in an exceptionally well-preserved hadrosaur (Dinosauria: Ornithischia). PeerJ 2019; 7:e7875. [PMID: 31637130 PMCID: PMC6800526 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.7875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Preserved labile tissues (e.g., skin, muscle) in the fossil record of terrestrial vertebrates are increasingly becoming recognized as an important source of biological and taphonomic information. Here, we combine a variety of synchrotron radiation techniques with scanning electron and optical microscopy to elucidate the structure of 72 million-year-old squamous (scaly) skin from a hadrosaurid dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous of Alberta, Canada. Scanning electron and optical microscopy independently reveal that the three-dimensionally preserved scales are associated with a band of carbon-rich layers up to a total thickness of ∼75 microns, which is topographically and morphologically congruent with the stratum corneum in modern reptiles. Compositionally, this band deviates from that of the surrounding sedimentary matrix; Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and soft X-ray spectromicroscopy analyses indicate that carbon appears predominantly as carbonyl in the skin. The regions corresponding to the integumentary layers are distinctively enriched in iron compared to the sedimentary matrix and appear with kaolinite-rich laminae. These hosting carbonyl-rich layers are apparently composed of subcircular bodies resembling preserved cell structures. Each of these structures is encapsulated by calcite/vaterite, with iron predominantly concentrated at its center. The presence of iron, calcite/vaterite and kaolinite may, independently or collectively, have played important roles in the preservation of the layered structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Barbi
- Department of Physics, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Phil R Bell
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Federico Fanti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biologiche, Geologiche e Ambientali, Alma Mater Studiorum, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Museo Geologico Giovanni Capellini, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - James J Dynes
- Canadian Light Source Inc., University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Anezka Kolaceke
- Department of Physics, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Josef Buttigieg
- Department of Biology, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Ian M Coulson
- Department of Geology, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Philip J Currie
- Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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21
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Currie PJ, Evans DC. Cranial Anatomy of New Specimens of
Saurornitholestes langstoni
(Dinosauria, Theropoda, Dromaeosauridae) from the Dinosaur Park Formation (Campanian) of Alberta. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 303:691-715. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.24241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - David C. Evans
- Department of Natural History (Palaeobiology)Royal Ontario Museum Toronto Ontario Canada
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
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22
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Persons WS, Currie PJ. Feather evolution exemplifies sexually selected bridges across the adaptive landscape. Evolution 2019; 73:1686-1694. [PMID: 31359437 DOI: 10.1111/evo.13795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, paleontologists have pieced together the early evolutionary history of feathers. Simple hair-like feathers served as insulating pelage, but the first feathers with complex branching structures and a plainer form evolved for the purpose of sexual display. The evolution of these complex display feathers was essential to the later evolution of flight. Feathers illustrate how sexual selection can generate complex novel phenotypes, which are then available for natural selection to modify and direct toward novel functions. In the longstanding metaphor of the adaptive landscape, sexual selection is a means by which lineages resting on one adaptive peak may gradually bridge a gap to another peak, without the landscape itself being first altered by environmental changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Scott Persons
- Mace Brown Museum of Natural History, College of Charleston, Charleston, South Carolina, 29424
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
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23
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Funston GF, Wilkinson RD, Simon DJ, Leblanc AH, Wosik M, Currie PJ. Histology of Caenagnathid (Theropoda, Oviraptorosauria) Dentaries and Implications for Development, Ontogenetic Edentulism, and Taxonomy. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 303:918-934. [PMID: 31270950 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The fossil record of caenagnathid oviraptorosaurs consists mainly of their fused, complexly sculptured dentaries, but little is known about the growth and development of this diagnostic structure. Previous work has suggested that the ridges and grooves on the occlusal surface are either the vestiges of teeth and their alveoli or were adaptations to increase shearing action during mastication. In addition, the distinctiveness of the dentaries has led to their use for species-level taxonomy, without a complete understanding of their variation through ontogeny. Here, we describe additional caenagnathid mandibles from the Dinosaur Park Formation of Alberta, Canada, and perform histological analyses to assess relative ontogenetic stage and the nature of the occlusal elaborations. The results show that the mandibular symphysis is synostosed early in ontogeny and does not accurately reflect ontogenetic stage in caenagnathids. In contrast, the presence of cyclical growth marks in a large specimen shows that mandibles can be used for relative histological maturity estimation. Histological features of the ridges of bone surrounding the lingual groove indicate that they are not the vestiges of tooth-bearing tissues and that caenagnathids did not lose their teeth through ontogeny as suggested in previous work. Instead, increased secondary remodeling in these structures is consistent with their use for food processing. Unexpectedly advanced maturity in a small specimen suggests that at least three caenagnathid species of varying body sizes coexisted in the Dinosaur Park Formation. These results stress the necessity of histological analysis when assessing maturity or ontogenetic trends in fossil material. Anat Rec, 303:918-934, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory F Funston
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ryan D Wilkinson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - D Jade Simon
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aaron H Leblanc
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mateusz Wosik
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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24
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Mallon JC, Bura JR, Schumann D, Currie PJ. A Problematic Tyrannosaurid (Dinosauria: Theropoda) Skeleton and Its Implications for Tyrannosaurid Diversity in the Horseshoe Canyon Formation (Upper Cretaceous) of Alberta. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 303:673-690. [PMID: 31254458 PMCID: PMC7079176 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Several published censuses have noted the presence of two tyrannosaurids, Daspletosaurus sp. and Albertosaurus sarcophagus, within the Upper Cretaceous Horseshoe Canyon Formation of Alberta. Although A. sarcophagus is known from more than a dozen major discoveries in these strata, Daspletosaurus sp. is known from just a single problematic skeleton (lacking most of the skull) of a young individual. Here we describe and figure this skeleton, and marshal a variety of osteohistologic, morphometric, and phylogenetic methods to accurately determine its taxonomic status. Although none of these methods individually provides convincing evidence regarding the affinities of the specimen, together (and including other historical and biostratigraphic considerations) they strongly imply that the skeleton instead pertains to a young A. sarcophagus. In this way, we show that only a single species of tyrannosaurid is definitively present in the Horseshoe Canyon Formation, greatly simplifying interpretations of tyrannosaurid evolution and ecology in this setting. Anat Rec, 303:673-690, 2020. © 2019 The Authors. The Anatomical Record published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Association of Anatomists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan C Mallon
- Beaty Centre for Species Discovery and Palaeobiology Section, Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan R Bura
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Persons WS, Currie PJ, Erickson GM. An Older and Exceptionally Large Adult Specimen of
Tyrannosaurus rex. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 303:656-672. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.24118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- W. Scott Persons
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Gregory M. Erickson
- Department of Biological Sciences Florida State University Tallahassee Florida
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Patterson TJ, Beck J, Currie PJ, Spence RAJ, Spence G. Meta-analysis of patient-reported outcomes after laparoscopic versus open inguinal hernia repair. Br J Surg 2019; 106:824-836. [PMID: 30990238 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.11139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inguinal hernia repair is a common low-risk intervention. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are being used increasingly as primary outcomes in clinical trials. The aim of this study was to review and meta-analyse the PROs in RCTs comparing laparoscopic versus open inguinal hernia repair techniques in adult patients. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Only RCTs in peer-reviewed journals were considered. PubMed, Ovid Embase, Scopus and the Cochrane Library were searched. In addition, four trial registries were searched. The search interval was between 1 January 1998 and 1 May 2018. Identified publications were reviewed independently by two authors. The review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42018099552). Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration risk-of-bias tool. RESULTS Some 7192 records were identified, from which 58 unique RCTs were selected. Laparoscopic hernia repair was associated with significantly less postoperative pain in three intervals: from 2 weeks to within 6 months after surgery (risk ratio (RR) 0·74, 95 per cent c.i. 0·62 to 0·88), 6 months to 1 year (RR 0·74, 0·59 to 0·93) and 1 year onwards (RR 0·62, 0·47 to 0·82). Paraesthesia (RR 0·27, 0·18 to 0·40) and patient-reported satisfaction (RR 0·91, 0·85 to 0·98) were also significantly better in the laparoscopic repair group. CONCLUSION The data and analysis reported in this study reflect the most up-to-date evidence available for the surgeon to counsel patients. It was constrained by heterogeneity of reporting for several outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Patterson
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, BT16 1RH, UK
| | - J Beck
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, BT16 1RH, UK
| | - P J Currie
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, BT16 1RH, UK
| | - R A J Spence
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, BT16 1RH, UK
| | - G Spence
- Department of General Surgery, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, BT16 1RH, UK
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Snively E, O'Brien H, Henderson DM, Mallison H, Surring LA, Burns ME, Holtz TR, Russell AP, Witmer LM, Currie PJ, Hartman SA, Cotton JR. Lower rotational inertia and larger leg muscles indicate more rapid turns in tyrannosaurids than in other large theropods. PeerJ 2019; 7:e6432. [PMID: 30809441 PMCID: PMC6387760 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Synopsis Tyrannosaurid dinosaurs had large preserved leg muscle attachments and low rotational inertia relative to their body mass, indicating that they could turn more quickly than other large theropods. Methods To compare turning capability in theropods, we regressed agility estimates against body mass, incorporating superellipse-based modeled mass, centers of mass, and rotational inertia (mass moment of inertia). Muscle force relative to body mass is a direct correlate of agility in humans, and torque gives potential angular acceleration. Agility scores therefore include rotational inertia values divided by proxies for (1) muscle force (ilium area and estimates of m. caudofemoralis longus cross-section), and (2) musculoskeletal torque. Phylogenetic ANCOVA (phylANCOVA) allow assessment of differences in agility between tyrannosaurids and non-tyrannosaurid theropods (accounting for both ontogeny and phylogeny). We applied conditional error probabilities a(p) to stringently test the null hypothesis of equal agility. Results Tyrannosaurids consistently have agility index magnitudes twice those of allosauroids and some other theropods of equivalent mass, turning the body with both legs planted or pivoting over a stance leg. PhylANCOVA demonstrates definitively greater agilities in tyrannosaurids, and phylogeny explains nearly all covariance. Mass property results are consistent with those of other studies based on skeletal mounts, and between different figure-based methods (our main mathematical slicing procedures, lofted 3D computer models, and simplified graphical double integration). Implications The capacity for relatively rapid turns in tyrannosaurids is ecologically intriguing in light of their monopolization of large (>400 kg), toothed dinosaurian predator niches in their habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Snively
- Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, La Crosse, WI, USA
| | - Haley O'Brien
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, USA
| | | | | | - Lara A Surring
- Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, Drumheller, AB, Canada
| | - Michael E Burns
- Department of Biology, Jacksonville State University, Jacksonville, AL, USA
| | - Thomas R Holtz
- Department of Geology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.,Department of Paleobiology, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Anthony P Russell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AL, Canada
| | | | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AL, Canada
| | - Scott A Hartman
- Department of Geoscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - John R Cotton
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
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Persons WS, Currie PJ. The Anatomical and Functional Evolution of the Femoral Fourth Trochanter in Ornithischian Dinosaurs. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 303:1146-1157. [PMID: 30776198 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The femoral fourth trochanter is the attachment site of the caudofemoralis musculature, which is the primary hindlimb retractor in most non-avian dinosaurs. Early ornithischian dinosaurs are uniquely characterized by a fourth trochanter with a prominent pendant process. Throughout the evolution of ornithischians, the fourth trochanter repeatedly converged on two major morphological changes: (1) the distal migration of the trochanter down the femoral shaft and (2) the loss of the pendant process. Both changes, as well as the original evolution of the pendant form, relate to a single major functional shift emphasizing caudofemoral leverage. Direct evidence of muscle scarring across the surface of the pendant process affirms that it served to extend the attachment of the primary caudofemoralis brevis tendon distally. A proximally located fourth trochanter is the basal condition in dinosaurs and other archosaurs, and the development of a pendant process lengthened the functional lever arm with regard to the insertion of the caudofemoralis. This adaptation afforded improved mechanical advantage, perhaps beneficial in the context of the newly assumed herbivorous diets of basal ornithischians. As some derived ornithischians increased in body size, a high-leverage system with a more distal caudofemoralis attachment evolved. In some groups, the fourth trochanter as a whole descended down the femur, eventually reaching a point where the pendant process was unnecessary. Sauropodomorphs, the other great lineage of dinosaur herbivores, converged on the same high-leverage distal fourth trochanter arrangement, but without first transitioning through a prominent pendant form. Anat Rec, 303:1146-1157, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter S Persons
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Chinzorig T, Kobayashi Y, Tsogtbaatar K, Currie PJ, Watabe M, Barsbold R. Author Correction: First Ornithomimid (Theropoda, Ornithomimosauria) from the Upper Cretaceous Djadokhta Formation of Tögrögiin Shiree, Mongolia. Sci Rep 2018; 8:6045. [PMID: 29643412 PMCID: PMC5895698 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-23583-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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Funston GF, Martin-Silverstone E, Currie PJ. Correction: The first pterosaur pelvic material from the Dinosaur Park Formation (Campanian) and implications for azhdarchid locomotion. Facets (Ott) 2018. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2018-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
UALVP 56200, originally identified as a partial pelvis of an azhdarchid pterosaur, is a badly broken tyrannosaurid squamosal. Previous conclusions presented about pelvic myology and locomotion in azhdarchids are unsubstantiated and should be disregarded. UALVP 56200 is briefly redescribed here as a squamosal, and provides insights on the extent of cranial pneumaticity in tyrannosaurids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory F. Funston
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405, Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Martin-Silverstone
- Ocean and Earth Science, University of Southampton, National Oceanography Centre, Southampton, University of Southampton, Southampton SO14 3ZH, UK
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405, Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
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Abstract
Dinosaur community composition data for eleven fossil localities in the Late Cretaceous Nemegt Basin of Mongolia are compiled from field observations and records in the literature. Counts were generated from skeletons and represent numbers of individuals preserved in each locality. These data were used in the analyses of Funston et al. [1] “Oviraptorosaur anatomy, diversity, and ecology in the Nemegt Basin” in the Nemegt Ecosystems Special Issue of Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, where the results are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G F Funston
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405 Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2E9
| | - S E Mendonca
- Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, 1-26 Earth Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2E3
| | - P J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405 Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada T6G 2E9
| | - R Barsbold
- Institute of Paleontology and Geology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Box-46/650, Ulaanbaatar 15160, Mongolia
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Bell PR, Campione NE, Persons WS, Currie PJ, Larson PL, Tanke DH, Bakker RT. Tyrannosauroid integument reveals conflicting patterns of gigantism and feather evolution. Biol Lett 2017; 13:rsbl.2017.0092. [PMID: 28592520 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2017.0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence for feathers in theropods has led to speculations that the largest tyrannosaurids, including Tyrannosaurus rex, were extensively feathered. We describe fossil integument from Tyrannosaurus and other tyrannosaurids (Albertosaurus, Daspletosaurus, Gorgosaurus and Tarbosaurus), confirming that these large-bodied forms possessed scaly, reptilian-like skin. Body size evolution in tyrannosauroids reveals two independent occurrences of gigantism; specifically, the large sizes in Yutyrannus and tyrannosaurids were independently derived. These new findings demonstrate that extensive feather coverings observed in some early tyrannosauroids were lost by the Albian, basal to Tyrannosauridae. This loss is unrelated to palaeoclimate but possibly tied to the evolution of gigantism, although other mechanisms exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phil R Bell
- University of New England, Armidale 2351, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicolás E Campione
- Palaeobiology Programme, Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, Villavägen 16, SE 75236 Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | - Peter L Larson
- Black Hills Institute of Geological Research, Inc., Hill City, SD 57745, USA
| | - Darren H Tanke
- Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, Drumheller, Alberta, Canada
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Bramble K, LeBlanc ARH, Lamoureux DO, Wosik M, Currie PJ. Histological evidence for a dynamic dental battery in hadrosaurid dinosaurs. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15787. [PMID: 29150664 PMCID: PMC5693932 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16056-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The first histological study of an entire hadrosaurid dental battery provides a comprehensive look at tooth movement within this complex structure. Previous studies have focused on isolated teeth, or in-situ batteries, but this is the first study to examine an entire dental battery of any dinosaur. The absence of direct tooth-to-tooth contact across the entire battery and a unique arrangement of the dental tissues in hadrosaurids led us to compare their teeth with the ever-growing incisors of mammals. The similarity in the distributions of tissues along the incisor, coupled with continuous eruption, make for helpful comparisons to hadrosaurid teeth. The mammalian ever-growing incisor can be used as a model to extrapolate the soft tissue connections and eruptive mechanisms within the hadrosaurid dental battery. Serial sections across the adult dental battery reveal signs of gradual ontogenetic tooth migration. Extensive remodeling of the alveolar septa and the anteroposterior displacement of successive generations of teeth highlight the gradual migration of tooth generations within the battery. These eruptive and ontogenetic tooth movements would not be possible without a ligamentous connection between successive teeth and the jaws, underscoring the dynamic nature of one of the most unique and complex dental systems in vertebrate history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Bramble
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada.
| | - Aaron R H LeBlanc
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Denis O Lamoureux
- St. Joseph's College, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2J5, Canada
| | - Mateusz Wosik
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, ON, M5S 2C6, Canada
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
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Chinzorig T, Kobayashi Y, Tsogtbaatar K, Currie PJ, Watabe M, Barsbold R. First Ornithomimid (Theropoda, Ornithomimosauria) from the Upper Cretaceous Djadokhta Formation of Tögrögiin Shiree, Mongolia. Sci Rep 2017; 7:5835. [PMID: 28724887 PMCID: PMC5517598 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05272-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Upper Cretaceous Djadokhta Formation has been intensively surveyed for its fossil vertebrate fauna for nearly a century. Amongst other theropods, dromaeosaurids and parvicursorines are common in the formation, but ornithomimosaurs are extremely rare. A new ornithomimosaur material was discovered from the Djadokhta Formation, represented by eolian deposits, of the Tögrögiin Shiree locality, Mongolia. This is only the third ornithomimosaur specimen reported from this formation, and includes the astragalus, the calcaneum, the third distal tarsal, and a complete pes. The new material is clearly belonged to Ornithomimidae by its arctometatarsalian foot condition and has the following unique characters; unevenly developed pair of concavities of the third distal tarsal, curved contacts between the proximal ends of second and fourth metatarsals, the elongate fourth digit, and a laterally inclined medial condyle on phalanx IV-1. These diagnostic characters of the Djadokhtan ornithomimosaur indicate that this is a new taxon. Our phylogenetic analysis supports three clades within derived ornithomimosaurs, and the new taxon is placed a member of the derived ornithomimosaurs. The present specimen is the first ornithomimid record from eolian Tögrögiin Shiree locality, and is indicative of their capability to adapt to arid environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsogtbaatar Chinzorig
- Department of Natural History Science, Graduate School of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan. .,Division of Vertebrate Paleontology, Institute of Paleontology and Geology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, 15160, Mongolia.
| | | | - Khishigjav Tsogtbaatar
- Division of Vertebrate Paleontology, Institute of Paleontology and Geology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, 15160, Mongolia
| | - Philip J Currie
- Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Mahito Watabe
- School of International Liberal Studies, Waseda University, Tokyo, 169-8050, Japan
| | - Rinchen Barsbold
- Division of Vertebrate Paleontology, Institute of Paleontology and Geology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, 15160, Mongolia
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McFeeters B, Ryan MJ, Schröder-Adams C, Currie PJ. First North American occurrences of Qiupalong (Theropoda: Ornithomimidae) and the palaeobiogeography of derived ornithomimids. Facets (Ott) 2017. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2016-0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ornithomimid material from the Belly River Group (Campanian) of Alberta, Canada is described as sharing characters with Qiupalong henanensis from the Qiupa Formation of Henan Province, China. Derived characters and character combinations of the pubis and astragalocalcaneum were previously used to diagnose Q. henanensis and support the referral of this material to Qiupalong sp., representing the first known occurrences of Qiupalong outside of China. Qiupalong is the sixth ornithomimid taxon to be reported from the Dinosaur Park Formation and the first ornithomimid genus with a transcontinental distribution. The Alberta material represents the oldest known occurrences of Qiupalong, and a reconsideration of character evidence suggests that this genus is phylogenetically nested within other North American ornithomimids. A North American origin for Qiupalong and subsequent dispersal to Asia is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley McFeeters
- Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Michael J. Ryan
- Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
- Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval Drive, University Circle, Cleveland, OH 41106-1767, USA
| | - Claudia Schröder-Adams
- Department of Earth Sciences, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
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Persons WS, Currie PJ. The functional origin of dinosaur bipedalism: Cumulative evidence from bipedally inclined reptiles and disinclined mammals. J Theor Biol 2017; 420:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2017.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Revised: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Funston GF, Martin-Silverstone E, Currie PJ. The first pterosaur pelvic material from the Dinosaur Park Formation (Campanian) and implications for azhdarchid locomotion. Facets (Ott) 2017. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2016-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A partial pterosaur pelvis from the Campanian Dinosaur Park Formation of Canada adds to our knowledge of Late Cretaceous pterosaurs. The pelvis is tentatively referred to Azhdarchidae and represents the first pelvic material from a North American azhdarchid. The morphology of the ilium is bizarre compared with other pterosaurs: it is highly pneumatized, the preacetabular process tapers anteriorly, and muscle scars show that it would have anchored strong adductor musculature for the hindlimb. The acetabulum is deep and faces ventrolaterally, allowing the limb to be positioned underneath the body. These features support previous suggestions that azhdarchids were well adapted to terrestrial locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory F. Funston
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405, Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Martin-Silverstone
- Ocean and Earth Science, National Oceanography Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, Southampton SO14 3ZH, UK
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, CW 405, Biological Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
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Xing L, McKellar RC, Xu X, Li G, Bai M, Persons WS, Miyashita T, Benton MJ, Zhang J, Wolfe AP, Yi Q, Tseng K, Ran H, Currie PJ. Response to: Phylogenetic placement, developmental trajectories and evolutionary implications of a feathered dinosaur tail in Mid-Cretaceous amber. Curr Biol 2017; 27:R216-R217. [PMID: 28324735 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2017.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In his correspondence, Markus Lambertz [1] raises some concerns about the phylogenetic placement and feather development of DIP-V-15103, the amber-entombed tail section that we recently reported [2] as fragmentary remains of a non-pygostylian coelurosaur (likely within the basal part of Coelurosauria). We here would like to respond to these concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lida Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China; School of the Earth Sciences and Resources, China University of Geosciences, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Ryan C McKellar
- Royal Saskatchewan Museum, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4P 4W7, Canada; Biology Department, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, S4S 0A2, Canada.
| | - Xing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Vertebrate Evolution and Human Origins, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Gang Li
- Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ming Bai
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - W Scott Persons
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Tetsuto Miyashita
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Michael J Benton
- School of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1RJ, UK
| | - Jianping Zhang
- School of the Earth Sciences and Resources, China University of Geosciences, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Alexander P Wolfe
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Qiru Yi
- Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kuowei Tseng
- Department of Exercise and Health Science, University of Taipei, Taipei 11153, China; Department of Geology, Chinese Culture University, Taipei 11114, China
| | - Hao Ran
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection, Ministry of Education, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
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Ruxton GD, Persons IV WS, Currie PJ. A continued role for signaling functions in the early evolution of feathers. Evolution 2017; 71:797-799. [DOI: 10.1111/evo.13178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Graeme D. Ruxton
- School of Biology; University of St Andrews; St Andrews Fife KY16 9TH United Kingdom
| | | | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences; University of Alberta; Edmonton Canada
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Xing L, McKellar RC, Xu X, Li G, Bai M, Persons WS, Miyashita T, Benton MJ, Zhang J, Wolfe AP, Yi Q, Tseng K, Ran H, Currie PJ. A Feathered Dinosaur Tail with Primitive Plumage Trapped in Mid-Cretaceous Amber. Curr Biol 2016; 26:3352-3360. [PMID: 27939315 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In the two decades since the discovery of feathered dinosaurs [1-3], the range of plumage known from non-avialan theropods has expanded significantly, confirming several features predicted by developmentally informed models of feather evolution [4-10]. However, three-dimensional feather morphology and evolutionary patterns remain difficult to interpret, due to compression in sedimentary rocks [9, 11]. Recent discoveries in Cretaceous amber from Canada, France, Japan, Lebanon, Myanmar, and the United States [12-18] reveal much finer levels of structural detail, but taxonomic placement is uncertain because plumage is rarely associated with identifiable skeletal material [14]. Here we describe the feathered tail of a non-avialan theropod preserved in mid-Cretaceous (∼99 Ma) amber from Kachin State, Myanmar [17], with plumage structure that directly informs the evolutionary developmental pathway of feathers. This specimen provides an opportunity to document pristine feathers in direct association with a putative juvenile coelurosaur, preserving fine morphological details, including the spatial arrangement of follicles and feathers on the body, and micrometer-scale features of the plumage. Many feathers exhibit a short, slender rachis with alternating barbs and a uniform series of contiguous barbules, supporting the developmental hypothesis that barbs already possessed barbules when they fused to form the rachis [19]. Beneath the feathers, carbonized soft tissues offer a glimpse of preservational potential and history for the inclusion; abundant Fe2+ suggests that vestiges of primary hemoglobin and ferritin remain trapped within the tail. The new finding highlights the unique preservation potential of amber for understanding the morphology and evolution of coelurosaurian integumentary structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lida Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China; School of the Earth Sciences and Resources, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Ryan C McKellar
- Royal Saskatchewan Museum, Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 4W7, Canada; Biology Department, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan S4S 0A2, Canada.
| | - Xing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Vertebrate Evolution and Human Origins, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Gang Li
- Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ming Bai
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - W Scott Persons
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Tetsuto Miyashita
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Michael J Benton
- School of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1RJ, UK
| | - Jianping Zhang
- School of the Earth Sciences and Resources, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Alexander P Wolfe
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Qiru Yi
- Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kuowei Tseng
- Department of Exercise and Health Science, University of Taipei, Taipei 11153, China; Department of Geology, Chinese Culture University, Taipei 11114, China
| | - Hao Ran
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection, Ministry of Education, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E9, Canada
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Funston GF, Currie PJ, Eberth DA, Ryan MJ, Chinzorig T, Badamgarav D, Longrich NR. The first oviraptorosaur (Dinosauria: Theropoda) bonebed: evidence of gregarious behaviour in a maniraptoran theropod. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35782. [PMID: 27767062 PMCID: PMC5073311 DOI: 10.1038/srep35782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
A monodominant bonebed of Avimimus from the Nemegt Formation of Mongolia is the first oviraptorosaur bonebed described and the only recorded maniraptoran bonebed from the Late Cretaceous. Cranial elements recovered from the bonebed provide insights on the anatomy of the facial region, which was formerly unknown in Avimimus. Both adult and subadult material was recovered from the bonebed, but small juveniles are underrepresented. The taphonomic and sedimentological evidence suggests that the Avimimus bonebed represents a perimortem gregarious assemblage. The near absence of juveniles in the bonebed may be evidence of a transient age-segregated herd or 'flock', but the behaviour responsible for this assemblage is unclear. Regardless, the Avimimus bonebed is the first evidence of gregarious behaviour in oviraptorosaurs, and highlights a potential trend of increasing gregariousness in dinosaurs towards the end of the Mesozoic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory F Funston
- University of Alberta, Department of Biological Sciences, CW405 Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Philip J Currie
- University of Alberta, Department of Biological Sciences, CW405 Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - David A Eberth
- Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, Box 7500, Drumheller, Alberta, T0J 0Y0 Canada
| | - Michael J Ryan
- Department of Vertebrate Paleontology, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval Dr., University Circle, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | | | - Demchig Badamgarav
- Paleontological Center, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Box 260, Ulaan Baatar 210351, Mongolia
| | - Nicholas R Longrich
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, United Kingdom
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Martin-Silverstone E, Witton MP, Arbour VM, Currie PJ. A small azhdarchoid pterosaur from the latest Cretaceous, the age of flying giants. R Soc Open Sci 2016; 3:160333. [PMID: 27853614 PMCID: PMC5108964 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.160333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Pterosaur fossils from the Campanian-Maastrichtian of North America have been reported from the continental interior, but few have been described from the west coast. The first pterosaur from the Campanian Northumberland Formation (Nanaimo Group) of Hornby Island, British Columbia, is represented here by a humerus, dorsal vertebrae (including three fused notarial vertebrae), and other fragments. The elements have features typical of Azhdarchoidea, an identification consistent with dominance of this group in the latest Cretaceous. The new material is significant for its size and ontogenetic stage: the humerus and vertebrae indicate a wingspan of ca 1.5 m, but histological sections and bone fusions indicate the individual was approaching maturity at time of death. Pterosaurs of this size are exceedingly rare in Upper Cretaceous strata, a phenomenon commonly attributed to smaller pterosaurs becoming extinct in the Late Cretaceous as part of a reduction in pterosaur diversity and disparity. The absence of small juveniles of large species-which must have existed-in the fossil record is evidence of a preservational bias against small pterosaurs in the Late Cretaceous, and caution should be applied to any interpretation of latest Cretaceous pterosaur diversity and success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Martin-Silverstone
- Ocean and Earth Science, National Oceanography Centre, University of Southampton, European Way, Southampton SO14 3ZH, UK
- School of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, Wills Memorial Building, Bristol BS8 1RJ, UK
| | - Mark P. Witton
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Burnaby Building, Burnaby Road, Portsmouth PO1 3QL, UK
| | - Victoria M. Arbour
- Paleontology Research Lab, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Coria RA, Currie PJ. A New Megaraptoran Dinosaur (Dinosauria, Theropoda, Megaraptoridae) from the Late Cretaceous of Patagonia. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0157973. [PMID: 27439002 PMCID: PMC4954680 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0157973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A skeleton discovered in the Upper Cretaceous Sierra Barrosa Formation (Turonian-Coniacian) of Neuquén Province, Argentina represents a new species of theropod dinosaur related to the long snouted, highly pneumatized Megaraptoridae. The holotype specimen of Murusraptor barrosaensis n.gen et n.sp. (MCF-PVPH-411) includes much of the skull, axial skeleton, pelvis and tibia. Murusraptor is unique in having several diagnostic features that include anterodorsal process of lacrimal longer than height of preorbital process, and a thick, shelf-like thickening on the lateral surface of surangular ventral to the groove between the anterior surangular foramen and the insert for the uppermost intramandibular process of the dentary. Other characteristic features of Murusraptor barrosaensis n.gen. et n. sp.include a large mandibular fenestra, distal ends of caudal neural spines laterally thickened into lateral knob-like processes, short ischia distally flattened and slightly expanded dorsoventrally. Murusraptor belongs to a Patagonian radiation of megaraptorids together with Aerosteon, Megaraptor and Orkoraptor. In spite being immature, it is a larger but more gracile animal than existing specimens of Megaraptor, and is comparable in size with Aerosteon and Orkoraptor. The controversial phylogeny of the Megaraptoridae as members of the Allosauroidea or a clade of Coelurosauria is considered analyzing two alternative data sets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo A. Coria
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Gral. Roca, Argentina
- Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, Gral. Roca, Argentina
- Secretaria de Estado de Cultura de Neuquén, Museo Carmen Funes, Plaza Huincul, Neuquén, Argentina
- * E-mail:
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Erickson GM, Makovicky PJ, Currie PJ, Norell MA, Yerby SA, Brochu CA. Correction: Corrigendum: Gigantism and comparative life-history parameters of tyrannosaurid dinosaurs. Nature 2016; 531:538. [DOI: 10.1038/nature16487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Persons WS, Currie PJ. An approach to scoring cursorial limb proportions in carnivorous dinosaurs and an attempt to account for allometry. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19828. [PMID: 26813782 PMCID: PMC4728391 DOI: 10.1038/srep19828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
From an initial dataset of 53 theropod species, the general relationship between theropod lower-leg length and body mass is identified. After factoring out this allometric relationship, theropod hindlimb proportions are assessed irrespective of body mass. Cursorial-limb-proportion (CLP) scores derived for each of the considered theropod taxa offer a measure of the extent to which a particular species deviates in favour of higher or lower running speeds. Within the same theropod species, these CLP scores are found to be consistent across multiple adult specimens and across disparate ontogenetic stages. Early theropods are found to have low CLP scores, while the coelurosaurian tyrannosauroids and compsognathids are found to have high CLP scores. Among deinonychosaurs, troodontids have consistently high CLP scores, while many dromaeosaur taxa, including Velociraptor and Deinonychus, have low CLP scores. This indicates that dromaeosaurs were not, overall, a particularly cursorily adapted group. Comparisons between the CLP scores of Tyrannosaurus and specimens referred to the controversial genus Nanotyrannus indicate a strong discrepancy in cursorial adaptations, which supports the legitimacy of Nanotyrannus and the previous suggestions of ecological partitioning between Nanotyrannus and the contemporaneous Tyrannosaurus.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Scott Persons
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Abstract
Ankylosaurid ankylosaurs were quadrupedal, herbivorous dinosaurs with abundant dermal ossifications. They are best known for their distinctive tail club composed of stiff, interlocking vertebrae (the handle) and large, bulbous osteoderms (the knob), which may have been used as a weapon. However, tail clubs appear relatively late in the evolution of ankylosaurids, and seemed to have been present only in a derived clade of ankylosaurids during the last 20 million years of the Mesozoic Era. New evidence from mid Cretaceous fossils from China suggests that the evolution of the tail club occurred at least 40 million years earlier, and in a stepwise manner, with early ankylosaurids evolving handle-like vertebrae before the distal osteoderms enlarged and coossified to form a knob.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria M Arbour
- Paleontology and Geology Research Laboratory, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Persons WS, Currie PJ. Bristles before down: A new perspective on the functional origin of feathers. Evolution 2015; 69:857-62. [DOI: 10.1111/evo.12634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Walter S. Persons
- Department of Biological Sciences; University of Alberta; Edmonton Alberta T6G2E9 Canada
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences; University of Alberta; Edmonton Alberta T6G2E9 Canada
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Persons WS, Funston GF, Currie PJ, Norell MA. A possible instance of sexual dimorphism in the tails of two oviraptorosaur dinosaurs. Sci Rep 2015; 5:9472. [PMID: 25824625 PMCID: PMC4379468 DOI: 10.1038/srep09472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis that oviraptorosaurs used tail-feather displays in courtship behavior previously predicted that oviraptorosaurs would be found to display sexually dimorphic caudal osteology. MPC-D 100/1002 and MPC-D 100/1127 are two specimens of the oviraptorosaur Khaan mckennai. Although similar in absolute size and in virtually all other anatomical details, the anterior haemal spines of MPC-D 100/1002 exceed those of MPC-D 100/1127 in ventral depth and develop a hitherto unreported “spearhead” shape. This dissimilarity cannot be readily explained as pathologic and is too extreme to be reasonably attributed to the amount of individual variation expected among con-specifics. Instead, this discrepancy in haemal spine morphology may be attributable to sexual dimorphism. The haemal spine form of MPC-D 100/1002 offers greater surface area for caudal muscle insertions. On this basis, MPC-D 100/1002 is regarded as most probably male, and MPC-D 100/1127 is regarded as most probably female.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Scott Persons
- University of Alberta, Department of Biological Sciences, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G2E9, Canada
| | - Gregory F Funston
- University of Alberta, Department of Biological Sciences, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G2E9, Canada
| | - Philip J Currie
- University of Alberta, Department of Biological Sciences, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G2E9, Canada
| | - Mark A Norell
- American Museum of Natural History, New York City, New York, USA
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Cullen TM, Evans DC, Ryan MJ, Currie PJ, Kobayashi Y. Osteohistological variation in growth marks and osteocyte lacunar density in a theropod dinosaur (Coelurosauria: Ornithomimidae). BMC Evol Biol 2014; 14:231. [PMID: 25421260 PMCID: PMC4269922 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-014-0231-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Osteohistological examinations of fossil vertebrates have utilized a number of proxies, such as counts and spacing of lines of arrested growth (LAGs) and osteocyte lacunar densities (OLD), in order to make inferences related to skeletochronology and mass-specific growth rates. However, many of these studies rely on samplings of isolated bones from single individuals. These analyses do not take individual variation into account, and as a result may lead to misleading inferences of the physiology of extinct organisms. This study uses a multi-element, multi-individual sampling of ornithomimid dinosaurs to test the amount of individual variation in the aforementioned osteohistological indicators. Based on these results we also assess the conclusions of previous studies that tested paleohistological hypotheses using isolated elements. Results LAG number was found to be consistent within the hind limb bones of each individual, with the exception of the fibula, which preserves one additional LAG. Considerable differences in LAG spacing were found between elements of the sampled individuals, with larger variation found in elements of the foot compared with the femur, fibula, and tibia. Osteocyte lacunar density ranged between 29000 and 42000 osteocyte lacunae per mm3, and was found to vary more between hind limb bones of an individual and within bones, than between the average values of individuals. Conclusions The variation between hind limb elements in LAG number and LAG spacing suggests that direct comparisons of these elements may be misleading, and that LAG spacing is not a reliable proxy for mass-specific growth rates of an individual. Sampling of multiple bones should be performed as an internal check of model-based LAG retro-calculation and growth equations. The observation that osteocyte lacunar density varies more between individual bone elements than between average individual values suggests that the choice of sampled element can greatly influence the result, and care should be taken to not bias interpretations of the physiology of fossil tetrapods. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12862-014-0231-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Cullen
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3B2, Canada.
| | - David C Evans
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Willcocks Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3B2, Canada. .,Department of Natural History, Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, ON, M5S 2C6, Canada.
| | - Michael J Ryan
- Department of Vertebrate Paleontology, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Cleveland, OH, 44106-1767, U.S.A.
| | - Philip J Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E9, Canada.
| | - Yoshitsugu Kobayashi
- Hokkaido University Museum, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0810, Japan.
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Arbour VM, Currie PJ, Badamgarav D. The ankylosaurid dinosaurs of the Upper Cretaceous Baruungoyot and Nemegt formations of Mongolia. Zool J Linn Soc 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/zoj12185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria M. Arbour
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, CW405 Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB, CanadaT6G 2E9,
| | - Philip J. Currie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, CW405 Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB, CanadaT6G 2E9,
| | - Demchig Badamgarav
- Paleontological Center, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Box 260, Ulaanbaatar, 210351, Mongolia
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