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Ancient Ankylosaur Fossils Discovered Amid Poaching Threat

8/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Spicomellus afer, the earliest known ankylosaur, existed over 165 million years ago and had distinctive display spikes.
Fossils found in Morocco show extensive bony protrusions, with some measuring over 87 cm.
Researchers are seeking additional specimens, facing challenges from fossil poaching.
The findings were published in the journal Nature.

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Story summary

Spicomellus afer, the earliest known ankylosaur, existed over 165 million years ago and had distinctive display spikes.
Fossils found in Morocco show extensive bony protrusions, with some measuring over 87 cm.
Researchers are seeking additional specimens, facing challenges from fossil poaching.
The findings were published in the journal Nature.