Scientists have uncovered an amazing collection of 75-million-year-old fossils in Patagonia, Argentina, including a brand new dinosaur species, along with turtles, fish, and other prehistoric creatures. These fossils help us imagine what life was like when dinosaurs ruled the Earth.
A World Long Ago
Today, Patagonia is a dry, windy region. But 75 million years ago, it looked completely different! The area was full of rivers, lakes, and sand dunes. This watery environment was home to many kinds of animals that scientists are now finding fossilized in the rocks.
Photo courtesy of CONICET.
New Dinosaur: Meet Chadititan
The most exciting find is a new type of long-necked dinosaur called Chadititan calvoi. Scientists estimated based on the length of one of the dinosaur’s leg bones that Chadititan was about about 7 m long.
Scientists remarked that a huge proportion of the fossils they found — more than 90% — were from turtles, showing how the region had a distinct ecosystem from other continents, where turtle fossils are far less common.
The fossils were found near General Roca city, Río Negro province, Argentina.
Photo courtesy of CONICET.
Why This Find is Important
This discovery helps scientists understand:
- What ancient ecosystems in Patagonia were like
- How different animals lived together
- How environments change over time
