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New Spinosaurus Species Discovered: Semi-Aquatic Predator Revealed

2/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Researchers discovered a new dinosaur species, Spinosaurus mirabilis, in Niger's Sahara Desert, dating to about 95 million years ago.
The 20-inch scimitar-shaped crest and interlocking teeth suggest a semi-aquatic predator that fished in inland rivers rather than coastal waters.
The discovery challenges the view that spinosaurids were fully aquatic.
Researchers published findings in Science under the leadership of Professor Paul Sereno of the University of Chicago.

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Story summary

Researchers discovered a new dinosaur species, Spinosaurus mirabilis, in Niger's Sahara Desert, dating to about 95 million years ago.
The 20-inch scimitar-shaped crest and interlocking teeth suggest a semi-aquatic predator that fished in inland rivers rather than coastal waters.
The discovery challenges the view that spinosaurids were fully aquatic.
Researchers published findings in Science under the leadership of Professor Paul Sereno of the University of Chicago.