In 2019, paleontologists discovered the fossilized remains of a new species of dinosaur in northern Montana. This dinosaur, related to Triceratops, had a unique and asymmetrical skull structure. So, let’s discover Lokiceratops rangiformis!
Unique Skull Structure
Lokiceratops had an unusual set of head ornaments, including the largest frill horns ever seen on a horned dinosaur. Its frill featured two long frontal horns and three more on the back. The largest frill horns, broad and curving like scimitars, measured over 23 inches!
Age and Size
This dinosaur roamed the Earth around 78 million years ago, predating Triceratops by 12 million years. It measured approximately 22 feet long and weighed around 5 tons, which is about as heavy as an elephant. Its home was on the island continent Laramidia, which existed in what is now western North America.
Function of the Horns
The large frill horns were likely used for display rather than defense. These features would have helped attract mates or intimidate rivals, much like fancy feathers on a bird. Such characteristics are common among horned dinosaurs of the Ceratopsid family.
Largest Frill Horns
Lokiceratops hold the record for the largest frill horns by volume and length. These asymmetrical horns, particularly the middle-frill ones, were remarkable in their design. They resembled the antlers of modern reindeer in their uneven structure, which plays into their name, as we’re about to discuss.
Asymmetry in Horned Dinosaurs
Asymmetry in horned dinosaurs is not uncommon, but it is particularly striking in Lokiceratops. Its middle-frill horns, in particular, exhibited an unusual, asymmetric shape. This feature inspired the species name “rangiformis,” referring to reindeer-like antlers (reindeer are Rangifer tarandus).
Biodiversity of Ceratopsids
The discovery of Lokiceratops adds to the understanding of Ceratopsid biodiversity. Many different species of horned dinosaurs evolved in the Late Cretaceous period, as you can see above. This period was marked by a wide variety of horned dinosaurs in North America.
Coexistence of Ceratopsids
At least five different species of horned dinosaurs lived in the same region at the same time as Lokiceratops. This is the first fossil interval showing such a diverse Ceratopsid population, which is a very exciting discovery. These dinosaurs shared their habitat on the island continent of Laramidia, which is right around where the state of Montana is now located.
Comparison to Triceratops
By the end of the Cretaceous period, around 66 million years ago, Triceratops had become the dominant horned dinosaur. In contrast, Lokiceratops lived in a time of greater Ceratopsid diversity several years earlier. This shift highlights changes in dinosaur fauna over time and the evolution of Ceratopsidae in order to keep up.
The Name Lokiceratops
Paleontologists named Lokiceratops after the Norse god Loki, reflecting the fossil’s new home in Denmark. As you already know, the name “rangiformis” was inspired by the dinosaur’s asymmetrical horns. These two elements combine to create what I think is a pretty awesome name for this interesting dinosaur.
Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of Lokiceratops sheds new light on the evolution of horned dinosaurs. Its unique skull and horns reveal the complex diversity of Ceratopsids. Additionally, this finding contributes to the ongoing study of Late Cretaceous dinosaur ecosystems.
Insights from the Fossil
Studying the Lokiceratops fossil allows scientists to better understand Ceratopsid behavior and adaptation. For example, its large frill horns and unique asymmetry may have played significant roles in its social interactions. Further research could uncover more about its place in the dinosaur family tree.
Conclusion
The discovery of Lokiceratops rangiformis adds a fascinating chapter to the study of Ceratopsid dinosaurs. Its unusual skull and record-breaking frill horns set it apart from other known species. As researchers continue to study its remains, they may unlock more secrets about the diversity and evolution of horned dinosaurs!
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