A Groundbreaking Discovery in Dinosaur History

Paleontologists from an international team, including experts from Portugal, Italy, the U.S., and Belgium, have made an astonishing discovery—introducing a brand-new species of herbivorous dinosaur known as **Cariocecus bocagei**!

A Glimpse into the Cretaceous Period

Dating back to the Barremian age of the Cretaceous period, approximately **125 million years ago**, this medium-sized iguanodontian roamed what is now Portugal. Known for their robust bodies and intricate teeth, iguanodontians are critical to understanding herbivorous dinosaur ecosystems during this era.

The Evolution of Iguanodontians

Dr. Filippo Bertozzo, a notable paleontologist from the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, explained: "Iguanodontians have significantly shaped the herbivorous dinosaur diversity throughout the Cretaceous. By the mid-Cretaceous, they had expanded their global presence, which is still not entirely understood due to limited fossil records from earlier periods."

Unearthing Fossil Treasures

The key to this groundbreaking revelation lies in a partial skull discovered back in **2016** along the western cliffs of Portugal. Measuring about **37 cm long**, this skull marks the very first iguanodontian find in the country’s fossil record. The specimen emerged from the **Papo Seco Formation**, providing vital insights into Cretaceous life.

A Unique Anatomical Marvel

Upon studying the fossil, the research team uncovered astonishing anatomical features not previously identified in any other iguanodont species. Notably, they found a complete fusion of the **maxilla and jugal bone**, a truly rare trait that sets Cariocecus bocagei apart!

Advanced Scanning Techniques Reveal More

Using **micro-CT scans**, scientists scrutinized the skull’s cranial nerves and inner ear, revealing intriguing details about the dinosaur’s sensory capabilities and lifestyle. Dr. Bertozzo noted, "A skull is always a momentous find. It provides us with invaluable information about an animal's life than isolated bones ever could."

Teeth Tell a Story

The teeth of Cariocecus bocagei were also a revelation! These scans elucidated both visible and replacement teeth nestled within its jaw, hinting at a more efficient biting mechanism than its relatives. The presence of such well-defined tooth replacement was seldom observed in early species.

Broader Implications of the Discovery

This discovery enriches our understanding of the **Early Cretaceous** ecosystems in the Lusitanian Basin, suggesting a diverse array of iguanodontian species. The research indicates that the evolutionary patterns of these dinosaurs align with those observed in contemporary habitats across the globe.

A Key to Evolutionary Insights

Ultimately, the revelation of **Cariocecus bocagei** emphasizes the vital role of the **Hauterivian-Barremian-Aptian** periods in shaping iguanodontian evolution, paving the way for more advanced dinosaur species like the hadrosaurids. The findings were officially published in the *Journal of Systematic Palaeontology*, marking a significant milestone in paleontological research.