Argentine paleontologists have made a remarkable discovery, unveiling a new medium-sized herbivorous dinosaur known as Chakisaurus nekul.
This swift creature, estimated to have lived approximately 90 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period in present-day Patagonia, has captured the attention of scientists worldwide.
The fossilized remains of Chakisaurus nekul were unearthed in the Pueblo Blanco Natural Reserve, nestled in the southern province of Río Negro, an area renowned for its abundance of fossils. Among the diverse array of prehistoric specimens discovered in this region are mammals, turtles, fish, and other species of dinosaurs.
Studies conducted on Chakisaurus have revealed fascinating insights into its anatomy and behavior. This bipedal herbivore possessed a unique feature—an unusually downward-curved tail, distinguishing it from its dinosaur counterparts. Rodrigo Álvarez, lead author of the study, highlights the significance of this trait, noting that it likely facilitated balance and agility during swift movements.
Moreover, Chakisaurus nekul was renowned for its remarkable speed, a vital attribute in an environment teeming with predators. Sebastián Rozadilla, co-author of the publication, emphasizes the dinosaur’s robust hind limbs and tail anatomy, which enabled it to maneuver effectively and maintain stability during rapid locomotion.
The name “Chakisaurus nekul” pays homage to the indigenous Tehuelche and Mapuche peoples of the region. “Chaki,” derived from the Aonikenk language, signifies “old guanaco,” a nod to the medium-sized herbivorous mammal prevalent in the area. “Nekul,” originating from the Mapudungún language, translates to “fast” or “agile,” underscoring the dinosaur’s swift nature.
