All about dinosaurs, fossils and prehistoric animals by Everything Dinosaur team members.
17 11, 2024

Debunking Aquatic Dinosaur Myths: Doctor Darren Naish Reveals the Facts

By |2024-11-20T13:24:15+00:00November 17th, 2024|Dinosaur Fans|0 Comments

In a recent scholarly rebuttal, renowned palaeontologist Dr Darren Naish has challenged the controversial claims made by Brian J. Ford asserting that all non-avian dinosaurs were aquatic animals not suited to terrestrial environments.  These claims originally surfaced more than a decade ago.  However, they were given additional emphasis and pseudo credibility in a book originally published in 2018 and entitled “Too Big to Walk: The New Science of Dinosaurs”.  Essentially, the author asserts that dinosaurs were just too big to be able to live on land.

In addition, he proposes that bipedal theropods were unable to balance effectively as they moved due to excessive rotation on their vertical axis (yaw). Hence, dinosaurs such as Allosaurus, Giganotosaurus and Tyrannosaurus rex were aquatic.

Ford’s hypothesis suggests that dinosaurs adapted to a fully aquatic lifestyle.  He supports his argument with selective interpretations of fossil findings and highly contentious statements.

Brachiosaurs in water. Dr Darren Naish challenges a controversial hypothesis.

The remarkable artwork of Rudolph F. Zallinger which is featured in the book “Dinosaurs and Other Prehistoric Animals”. Such depictions are now outdated and there is overwhelming evidence to indicate sauropods were terrestrial animals.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The theory that dinosaurs were adapted to aquatic environments has been proposed before.  It was prevalent in the 19th and early 20th centuries and the contention that sauropods and the ornithischian hadrosaurs were aquatic animals remained popular up until the 1960s and 1970s.  Illustrations of giant sauropods such as Brachiosaurus wading around in swamps and lakes featured in many books about dinosaurs.  The artwork of Rudolph F. Zallinger (above) is a typical example.

Dr Darren Naish

Vertebrate palaeontologist and renowned author Dr Darren Naish challenges Ford’s assertions and sets out a critical response to the arguments put forward in “Too Big To Walk”.  His peer-reviewed rebuttal has been published in the journal “Historical Biology”. Dr Naish stresses the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, highlighting how the fossil record and other scientific disciplines provides a wealth of evidence supporting the terrestrial nature of most dinosaurs.

It is true, that many species of non-avian dinosaurs were capable waders and swimmers.  Indeed, some taxa such as the spinosaurids show adaptations for an aquatic life.  However, Ford asserts that all the non-bird dinosaurs lived in water.  A contention roundly discredited.

Birds, the only surviving members of the Dinosauria, exhibit a range of adaptations.  It is true, that many extant birds are very much at home in the water.  For example, penguins, but even these highly specialised birds must return to land to lay their eggs and raise the next generation.  Dr Naish provides an effective counterbalance to Ford’s spurious claims.  He argues that the assertions made are unfounded, lack substantial evidence and misinterpret existing data.

An aquatic dinosaur.

A lambeosaurine hadrosaur (Corythosaurus) depicted as an aquatic animal. The illustration by B. H. Robinson appears in a 1974 Ladybird leader book entitled “Dinosaurs”. Picture credit: B. H. Robinson.

Picture credit: B. H. Robinson

An Accomplished Author

Dr Naish is an accomplished author.  He has written extensively about Mesozoic fauna, with a number of notable works focusing on the Dinosauria.  In addition to his scientific papers and role as a consultant on films, television programmes and exhibitions he has published several extremely informative, popular science books.  For example, last year, a book documenting the evolutionary rise of the ancient sea reptiles and their domination of the Mesozoic Seas was published.

Everything Dinosaur team members were sent an inspection copy, and we subsequently wrote a review.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s review: Ancient Sea Reptiles by Dr Darren Naish.

The rebuttal provides an insightful counterpoint to the ideas proposed by Brian J. Ford.  The essay is not a detailed and forensic examination of Ford’s beliefs. However, it provides a comprehensive explanation as to why the narrative outlined by Ford is inaccurate. Furthermore, it highlights that palaeontology is dynamic, with the scientific community having altered its views on the Dinosauria based on new research. This contrasts with Ford’s own view of palaeontologists as being entrenched in dogma, unwilling to change with a “closed shop” mentality and hostile to outsiders.

Encouraging Debate and Reflection

It is important to note that debate is to be encouraged.  We at Everything Dinosaur acknowledge the need to recognise different viewpoints and perspectives.  However, we urge caution as new hypotheses are proposed, they should be open to continuous scrutiny and revision.  The contentions of Brian J. Ford do not stand up to scientific rigour and we welcome the measured and well-written response from Dr Naish.

As the debate continues, it serves as a reminder of the intricate history of life on Earth and the ongoing quest to understand it.  Furthermore, it serves as a warning to us in our fast-moving world of social media.  Unfounded theories and “alternative facts” can find an audience and take on an air of credibility. Ultimately, it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure a fair debate, and different perspectives are perfectly permissible.  However, the theories proposed by Brian J. Ford have been discredited and we must guard against “populist” ideas gaining traction and damaging the scientific community and the wider public’s perception of palaeontology.

Read the peer-reviewed rebuttal of the all non-avian dinosaurs were aquatic proposition: The Response to and Rejection of Brian Ford’s “Too Big to Walk”.

Darren Naish (08 Nov 2024): The response to and rejection of Brian Ford’s Too Big to Walk, a 21st century effort to reinstate the aquatic dinosaur hypothesis, Historical Biology, DOI: 10.1080/08912963.2024.2421268

16 11, 2024

The Beautiful PNSO Yangchuanosaurus Dinosaur Model

By |2024-11-17T20:23:43+00:00November 16th, 2024|PNSO Age of Dinosaurs Models|0 Comments

Team members enjoy taking photographs of dinosaur models.  Photographs of prehistoric animal figures are helpful to customers.  In addition, we can highlight details on the figures and discuss the accessories that are often included in the packaging.  For example, we were able to take some photographs of the recently introduced PNSO Yangchuanosaurus dinosaur model (Dayong). Dayong is a replica of Y. shangyouensis.  This dinosaur taxon was named and described in 1978.  The PNSO figure was introduced in the autumn of 2023.

PNSO Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis model.

The PNSO Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis figure photographed in lateral view. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

This fantastic model of a Yangchuanosaurus by PNSO comes complete with an A3 Sci-Art poster.  Furthermore, a sixty-four-page, full-colour booklet is included.

To view the range PNSO models in stock at Everything Dinosaur: PNSO Dinosaur Models and Figures.

The PNSO Yangchuanosaurus Dinosaur Model

The PNSO figure is a replica of a metriacanthosaurid theropod.  Its fossils come from south-western China (Chongqing Province). PNSO introduced two Yangchuanosaurus figures. Firstly, Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis and secondly Dapeng, a replica of Yangchuanosaurus magnus.

The discovery of a much larger theropod skeleton led to the erection of a second species in the Yangchuanosaurus genus. However, it is now thought by most palaeontologists that Yangchuanosaurus magus should have nomen dubium status. That is, that this species is not valid, and the skeletal remains represent an older and much larger specimen of Y. shangyouensis. PNSO did introduce a replica of Y. magus at the same time as Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis.

To read a customer’s review of the PNSO Dapeng the Yangchuanosaurus magus model: PNSO Dapeng the Yangchuanosaurus Reviewed.

PNSO Dayong the Yangchuanosaurus shangyouensis model.

This beautiful figure from PNSO has an articulated lower jaw. This theropod has a large gape and our congratulations to the painting team, the figure is superb. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Both the PNSO Yangchuanosaurus models (Dayong and Dapeng) have articulated lower jaws.

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“It is a beautiful dinosaur model.  It is great to see a Chinese manufacturer introducing replicas of Chinese prehistoric animals.”

The Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models and Figures.

15 11, 2024

New CollectA Prehistoric Animal Models for 2025 – Part 3

By |2024-11-14T16:51:46+00:00November 15th, 2024|CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

Today, in collaboration with our chums at CollectA we make a third announcement about new CollectA prehistoric animal models for 2025.  CollectA will introduce a replica of one of the first, really big dinosaurs to evolve. In 2025, CollectA will add a 1:40 scale Ingentia prima model to their Deluxe range of prehistoric animal figures.  The manufacturer has kindly sent us some exclusive images of this new herbivorous dinosaur figure.  We can share some of these images with you.

  • CollectA Deluxe 1:40 scale Ingentia prima.
The Ingentia prima model from CollectA.

The model is believed to measure a little over 25 cm in length making it approximately 1:40 scale.

Ingentia prima

With an estimated length of around ten metres and weighing a colossal ten tonnes Ingentia was one of the very first super-sized dinosaurs. Named and described in 2018 (Apaldetti et al), the fossil material reflects several adaptations to weight bearing and evolving enormous size. It did not have the pillar-like legs of later sauropods, the front limbs were bent and show greater flexibility than the limbs of later giants such as the diplodocids and brachiosaurs. The hand and foot (manus and pes) are not as derived.  There are individual toes and claws.  However, Ingentia remains one of the largest, if not the largest terrestrial animal known from the Triassic.

Its fossils come from the Quebrada del Barro Formation of north-western Argentina. It lived around 210 million years ago.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s article from 2018 announcing the formal scientific description of this dinosaur: Triassic Dinosaurs Just Got Bigger.

CollectA Ingentia prima dinosaur model.

The new for 2025 CollectA Ingentia prima dinosaur model.

The CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima Model

At this stage, we are not sure when this figure will be in stock. However, we will do our best to keep dinosaur model fans informed through our blog and other social media platforms.  We can confirm that the figure will measure a fraction over twenty-five centimetres in length.  So, the 1:40 scale declaration based on a ten-metre-long animal is quite accurate.  The figure is predominately light green with brown patterning.  The underside is a lighter, off-white colour.  The animal is posed as if it is slowly walking along.  This provides the design team with an opportunity to highlight those bent front limbs.

View the range of CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models in stock at Everything Dinosaur: CollectA Deluxe Figures.

It is certainly a most intriguing figure.  Perhaps, CollectA will make a revised Plateosaurus figure, replacing their existing model that was first introduced more than a decade ago.

The new for 2025 CollectA Ingentia prima model in 1:40 scale.

The new for 2025 sauropodomorph figure Ingentia prima from CollectA. The figure is shown in a partial posterior view.

These images reveal lots of detail on the skin of the Ingentia figure.  There are scales of various sizes. Large osteoderms seem to be present on the back, the flanks and running down the tail. The skin folds and position of the tail convey movement in the CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima model.

CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima model.

The striking colouration of the new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima figure.

Using the Binomial Name

CollectA seem to be introducing numerous figures that include the binomial name in their title.  For example, this model is referred to as Ingentia prima.  As far as we know there is just one species ascribed to this genus.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“When the Arctodus simus figure was announced last week, we noted comments on our Facebook post asking CollectA to introduce a sauropod figure next year.  Whilst Ingentia prima has been described as a basal sauropod, its exact phylogeny has yet to be resolved.  It is closely related to Lessemsaurus. Along with Antetonitrus (A. ingenipes), these dinosaurs have been classified into a new family of sauropodiform dinosaurs – the Lessemsauridae.”

The spokesperson added that he was looking forward to the CollectA Deluxe Ingentia prima model coming into stock in 2025.

Visit the Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys.

14 11, 2024

The Exclusive Giant Short-faced Bear Video

By |2024-11-14T06:09:32+00:00November 14th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur videos|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur team members have posted up onto the company’s YouTube channel a video review of the new CollectA Deluxe Giant Short-faced bear model.  The video is a little over nine minutes in length.  It permits viewers to see some of the exclusive images of this new prehistoric mammal model supplied by the manufacturer.  The narrator uses these images to point out some of the features that could not be seen in the official media image.  For example, the figure has a torn right ear and there is a pad on the wrist to indicate the sesamoid bone.

Video credit: Everything Dinosaur

The CollectA Deluxe Giant Short-faced Bear Model

The figure is a 1:20 scale replica of Arctodus simus.  It stands 17.3 cm tall. As the largest male bears could rear up to a height of 3.4 metres, the 1:20 scale statement is quite accurate.  This new for 2025 prehistoric bear figure measures 9.5 cm in length from the tips of the digits on the outstretched paw to the end of its stubby tail.

It is likely to be in stock at Everything Dinosaur around the end of quarter one or the beginning of quarter two in 2025.

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe figures in stock at Everything Dinosaur: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Life Models.

Mike who narrates the video explained that they try to post up a video review within a week of a new CollectA figure being announced.

Video Contents
0:00 – A Giant Short-faced Bear.
0:32 – Our Exclusive Images!
0:53 – Looking at the Head.
2:07 – Is That a Torn Ear?
2:42 – The Tail and Limb Proportions.
2:59 – The Colour of the Bear!
3:40 – It Stands on Two Legs!
3:56 – Why Chest and Face Markings?
5:52 – Spot the Sesamoid!
7:12 – Congratulations CollectA.
8:00 – In Stock When?
8:33 – Where to Buy?

CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus model.

The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear (Arctodus simus). The figure has a stated scale of 1:20.

Remarks on the Model’s Colouration

In the video review the narrator comments on the model’s colouration.  It would have been difficult for CollectA to make a brown Arctodus simus model.  Furthermore, giving the figure a black coat would have been tricky.  CollectA already have models of brown bears and black bears in their wildlife series.  The burnished grey colouration helps to differentiate the CollectA Deluxe Giant Short-faced bear model from other figures in the CollectA range.  In addition, the white bib on the chest and the face markings are commented upon in the video.  Perhaps these markings played a role in visual display.  Moreover, these markings could have intimidated predators when the bear reared up onto its hind legs.

We are looking forward to learning more about CollectA new releases.

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Models and Toys.

13 11, 2024

An Exclusive CollectA Giant Short-faced Bear Video

By |2024-11-13T21:26:35+00:00November 13th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur videos|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur will post on the company’s YouTube channel a brief video reviewing the recently announced CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus model. Last week, Everything Dinosaur in collaboration with their chums at CollectA announced that there would be a 1:20 scale model of a Giant Short-faced bear introduced into the CollectA Deluxe model range in 2025.  Team members have been sent some exclusive images of this new model.  As a result, they have been busy preparing a video about this exciting new prehistoric mammal figure.

The video will be available to view on Everything Dinosaur’s YouTube channel at 9:30pm (GMT).

The Everything Dinosaur preview of the CollectA Deluxe Giant Short-faced Bear figure.

Everything Dinosaur will post up shortly on the company’s YouTube channel a video previewing the new for 2025 CollectA Giant Short-faced bear model. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The CollectA Arctodus simus Model

The design team at CollectA have listened to the requests from model collectors.  In response to these pleadings, a replica of Arctodus simus in 1:20 scale will be introduced.  It is likely to be available in the spring of 2025.

To read Everything Dinosaur’s recent blog post about this new figure: New CollectA Models for 2025 – Part 2.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“These exclusive images have given us the opportunity to take a close look at this prehistoric bear model.  They show the model from various angles.  Furthermore, we have been working on a short video which highlights some of the features on the Giant Short-faced bear.  We expect the video to be around nine minutes in length.”

Take a look at Everything Dinosaur’s YouTube channel: Everything Dinosaur on YouTube.

A Diverse Range of Prehistoric Animal Models

CollectA have introduced numerous prehistoric mammal models.  For example, a wonderful 1:20 scale model of Diprotodon was introduced.  It too, is part of the CollectA Deluxe range.

New CollectA prehistoric animal models (August 2024).

Five new prehistoric animal models in stock at Everything Dinosaur (August 2024). The new 1:6 scale Deluxe Velociraptor (left), the 1:20 scale Deluxe Diprotodon (back), Placerias 1:20 scale (centre) and the CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Nanuqsaurus is at the front. The new Polacanthus foxii figure in 1:20 scale is on the right. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models in stock at Everything Dinosaur: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models.

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Prehistoric Animal Models.

12 11, 2024

Essential Digital Training for a Dinosaur Company

By |2024-11-17T19:43:15+00:00November 12th, 2024|Everything Dinosaur News and Updates|0 Comments

On-line businesses have to evolve constantly.  Keeping abreast of the latest developments and ensuring the website is optimised is essential, especially in a niche market like dinosaur models. At Everything Dinosaur, we recognise the need to ensure our website is as user-friendly as we can make it.  As the behaviour of browsers and visitors change we want our site: Dinosaur Models and Toys to remain helpful and informative.

The company is committed to continuous learning.  Fortunately, team member Mike has been able to participate in some training courses organised by Digital Cheshire.  This organisation provides business support programmes to help local firms achieve more in the ever-increasing digital world.  Moreover, Digital Cheshire help communities to access ultrafast broadband.  Access to super-fast broadband is vital, especially when it comes to shopping on-line.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur is standing on the right, surrounded by parcels for customers ready to dispatch.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur has recently taken part in workshops organised by Digital Cheshire.  A better website means happier customers. This translates in more purchases of dinosaur models. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Dinosaur Models and Digital Training

Having participated in the training, Digital Cheshire requested some feedback on the workshops and training programme. Mike was asked to contribute an article to Digital Cheshire’s blog outlining how the training programme has helped the business.

Digital Cheshire requested an article covering the following:

  • An introduction to the business.
  • Why is digital important to your business?
  • What you then learnt during your time with Digital Cheshire?
  • Since attending the masterclasses what are you doing differently?
Mike from Everything Dinosaur updating website information on dinosaur toys.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur updating website information and checking product details. For this company working in a niche market, it is important to make sure the website is optimised and updated. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

About Everything Dinosaur

The first part of the article, introducing Everything Dinosaur was the easiest.

Everything Dinosaur is an on-line retailing that specialises in the sale of museum quality dinosaur and prehistoric animal models. Formed in 2005 the company has built up a world-wide customer base in what is a niche market, supplying dinosaur fans and model collectors.

As an on-line retailer digital marketing is extremely important.  We are extremely active on social media (as our many of our customers), it is important for us to understand this dynamic sector.  For example, thanks to the training offered by Digital Cheshire, we have become better informed about the impact of AI.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur stated:

“By investing in digital training, we ensure Everything Dinosaur is equipped with the latest strategies to enhance our on-line presence.  We have always had a busy social media presence.  However, by learning new skills and updating our knowledge we can attract more customers, and ultimately foster a deeper passion for dinosaurs among enthusiasts of all ages.”

Contact Everything Dinosaur to learn more about this award-winning company: Email Everything Dinosaur.

11 11, 2024

The Official Image of the New CollectA Deluxe Giant Short-faced Bear

By |2024-11-08T16:48:24+00:00November 11th, 2024|CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Animal Models|0 Comments

Everything Dinosaur recently received the official image of the CollectA giant short-faced bear model.  We had received some exclusive images of the prototype, however, now we can post up the official image from the manufacturer. It certainly is a wonderful model of Arctodus simus.  A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that it would be in stock next year (2025), but they were not quite sure when. It should be available in the spring.

The CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear model.

The CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear figure. This model will be in stock at Everything Dinosaur in 2025. This is the official CollectA image included in the media release.

Intriguingly, the model in this view does not show the torn right ear.  This was a detail we highlighted in an earlier blog post when we announced this new figure.

To read our earlier blog post about the CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simusNew CollectA Models for 2025 (Part 2).

The CollectA Giant Short-faced Bear

This is the third prehistoric animal figure for 2025 to have been announced.  It joins the CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular Furcatoceratops and the remarkable 1:20 scale CollectA Deluxe Jaekelopterus.  Congratulations to CollectA these three models represent the enormous variety in the CollectA range.

The CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus model has already attracted a lot of interest from dinosaur fans and model collectors.  Furthermore, having received the official CollectA image we can comment on some of the additional details that can be seen.  However, if you only have the official image to guide you, you will have missed that torn ear detail.

CollectA Arctodus simus model.

The CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale giant short-faced bear. This figure shows some remarkable details, including a damaged ear. The red arrow points to the torn ear.

How Big is the Model?

There has been speculation as to the model’s size.  We can now confirm that the official measurements for this figure are height 17.3 cm, and length including that outstretched left paw, is around 9.5 cm.  With a declared height of 17.3 cm, this suggests an animal standing around 3.46 metres tall in 1:20 scale.

This confirms that this figure probably represents a male.  Males were much larger than the females.  In addition, it demonstrates the accuracy of this model, in terms of its scaling. The largest specimens of A. simus probably stood around 3.4 metres tall when they reared up onto their hind legs.

Confirmation of the height measurement of the CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus model.

Confirming the size of the CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear model. Picture credit: Additional annotation by Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Additional annotation by Everything Dinosaur.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that this model should be available around the same time as the Furcatoceratops and the 1:20 scale Jaekelopterus model (spring 2025).

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe figures in stock at Everything Dinosaur: CollectA Deluxe Models.

Paws for Thought – A “False Thumb”

A close-up examination of the right paw of the CollectA figure reveals further carefully crafted details.  The pad has an enlarged and raised area under digit I (the thumb). This feature is seen in the only extant bear in the Tremarctinae subfamily (Tremarctos ornatus). In addition, almost diagonally opposite, there is a second, oval-shaped pad. It is the pad associated with the radial sesamoid bone.

This feature is also found in T. ornatus (the spectacled bear), as well as extant pandas.  This suggest that the sesamoid pad is a primitive, more basal characteristic that was lost in later bear taxa.  It is often referred to as the “False Thumb” as it has a role in helping the bear to grasp plant stems and other items.

The right paw of the CollectA giant short-faced bear figure.

A close-up view of the right paw of the CollectA giant short-faced bear model. The “False Thumb” is highlighted along with a secondary fleshy area of pad opposite it. This morphology reflects what is seen in the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus).

Picture credit: Additional annotation by Everything Dinosaur

Team members at Everything Dinosaur are looking forward to the CollectA giant short-faced bear model coming into stock.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur added:

“The official CollectA image shows the details on the paw of the figure nicely.  This 1:20 scale figure should be in stock sometime in the spring of 2025.”

Visit the award-winning website of Everything Dinosaur: Dinosaur and Prehistoric Animal Toys.

10 11, 2024

Remarkable Dinosaur Fossils from the Yixian Formation Not Caused by Pompeii-like Catastrophes

By |2024-11-17T18:01:17+00:00November 10th, 2024|Palaeontological articles|0 Comments

Researchers have concluded that the remarkable fossils associated with the Yixian Formation of north-eastern China were not caused by Pompeii-like events.  The prevailing view was that these amazing fossils, some of which are preserved in stunning detail, were formed due to violent volcanic eruptions, lahars or pyroclastic flows.  However, a team of scientists writing in the journal the “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences”, have challenged this hypothesis.  Instead, it is suggested that the deposition took place over a period of less than 100,000 years. Furthermore, more mundane factors were at work, such as high rainfall, causing the burrows of animals to collapse.

Yixian Formation deposits explored by scientist.

Study co-author Paul Olsen exploring the quarry where the first feathered non-avian dinosaur was found in 1996 (Sinosauropteryx). If these fossils had formed as a result of violent volcanic events, it would have been highly unlikely that delicate structures such as feathers would have been preserved. Picture credit: Paul Olsen/Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.

Picture credit: Paul Olsen/Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory

Far from representing Pompeii-like catastrophes, the scientists conclude that the deposits provide a brief snapshot of normal life and death in an Early Cretaceous continental community.

The Incredible Fossils of the Yixian Formation

The Lower Cretaceous deposits of the Yixian Formation exposed in Liaoning Province (north-eastern China) were virtually unexplored until the 1980s.  Villagers reported finding beautiful fossil specimens, representing all kinds of creatures that once lived in a forested environment that contained large lakes.  The rocks are believed to be around 125 million years old (Barremian faunal stage). Fossils of dinosaurs, pterosaurs, birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish and insects have been found.  Some of the most famous fossils ever found come from this part of China.

Since the first, remarkable discoveries there has been fossil gold rush with an extensive network of fossil dealers and retail outlets springing up. Both locals and scientific field teams have excavated the area so much, the dig sites can be seen from space.  These are perhaps the most extensive palaeontological excavations on Earth.

The Jehol Biota.

The corpse of a feathered dinosaur lies on the lake shore whilst a pair of Psittacosaurus wander past and pterosaurs fly overhead.  It had been thought that the beautiful fossils of the Yixian Formation were formed as a result of volcanic activity. Picture credit: Zheng Qiuyang.

Picture credit: Zheng Qiuyang

Flattened Fossils or Three-dimensional Fossils

The fossils occur as flattened with soft tissue preservation (including feathers and melanosomes) in laminated lacustrine strata (lake sediments) or as three-dimensional almost complete, articulated skeletons in more terrestrial orientated deposits.  The discoveries include the first documented evidence of a mammal attacking a dinosaur.

To read more about this amazing fossil discovery: Repenomamus Attacks Psittacosaurus.

Co-author of the study, Paul Olsen a palaeontologist at the Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, commented:

“These are probably the most important dinosaur discoveries of the last 120 years. But what was said about their method of preservation highlights an important human bias. That is, to ascribe extraordinary causes, i.e. miracles, to ordinary events when we don’t understand their origins. These [fossils] are just a snapshot of everyday deaths in normal conditions over a relatively brief time.”

Analysing Grains of Zircon

Lead author of the research, Scott MacLennan (University of Witwatersrand) analysed tiny grains of the mineral zircon taken from the fossil matrix and the actual fossils. With these samples, he measured the ratios of radioactive uranium as it decays into lead. This rate of radioactive decay is constant. As a result, he was able to date the material with a high degree of accuracy. These fossils were formed around 125.8 million years ago, centred around a period of less than 93,000 years.

Further calculations showed that this timeframe contained three periods controlled by variations in the Earth’s orbit when the weather was relatively wet. This caused sediments to build up in lakes and on land much more quickly than previously had been thought. Many already deceased animals were quickly buried, and oxygen that normally would fuel decomposition was sealed out. The sealing effect was fastest in lakes, resulting in the preservation of soft tissues.

This explains why two types of fossils occur.

Exploring exposures of the Yixian Formation of north-eastern China.

A field team from the Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology exploring Yixian Formation exposures (Lujiatun Member). Many Psittacosaurus fossils have been found at this locality. On the right of the photograph is one of the quarries dug by local people in search of fossils to sell. Picture credit: Paul Olsen/Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.

Picture credit: Paul Olsen/Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory

Fossil Preservation Not Connected to Volcanism

The scientists have discounted volcanism. Previous studies have suggested that some animals were entombed in lahars. These are fast-moving concrete-like slurries of mud that flow from volcanoes following eruptions. However, lahars are extremely violent, preserving animal skeletons intact, with soft tissues preserved would be most unlikely.

In addition, other researchers have suggested that the preservation occurred due to pyroclastic flows. Pyroclastic flows involve rapidly moving waves of hot ash and poisonous gases, the sort of event that led to the remarkable preservation found in Pompeii.

There are layers of volcanic ash and lava within the layers of rock that form the Yixian Formation.  However, the fossil remains include delicate structures such as feathers and stomach contents, which could not have survived such traumatic incidents.  The scientists conclude that the evidence indicates sudden burrow collapses.  For example, the famous Repenomamus attacking the Psittacosaurus, a battle preserved in time, could have occurred when the mammal invaded the dinosaur’s burrow, and the burrow subsequently collapsed.

Rather than representing multiple, Pompeii-like terrible events, the Yixian Formation is instead a brief snapshot of normal life and death in an Early Cretaceous ecosystem.

An Economy Centred Around the Yixian Formation

Whatever, the reason for the fossil preservation, Liaoning Province is now one of the most famous parts of China.  These remarkable fossils attract tourists, and an entire industry has sprung up with extensive trading in fossil souvenirs.

Shopping for fossils in Chaoyang city (Liaoning Province).

Potential buyers examine fossils at a shop in the city of Chaoyang (Liaoning Province), a centre of the Chinese fossil trade. Picture credit: Paul Olsen/Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.

Picture credit: Paul Olsen/Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory

Everything Dinosaur acknowledges the assistance of a media release from The Earth Institute/Columbia Climate School (Columbia University) in the compilation of this article.

The scientific paper: “Extremely rapid, yet noncatastrophic, preservation of the flattened-feathered and 3D dinosaurs of the Early Cretaceous of China” by Scott A. MacLennan, Jingeng Sha, Paul E. Olsen, Sean T. Kinney, Clara Chang, Yanan Fang, Jun Liu, Bennett B. Slibeck, Elaine Chen and Blair Schoene published in the PNAS.

The award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys and Models.

9 11, 2024

Yuanyanglong bainian – A New Oviraptorosaur from Mongolia

By |2024-11-14T07:34:45+00:00November 9th, 2024|Palaeontological articles|0 Comments

Scientists have named a new species of oviraptorosaur from Inner Mongolia (China).  This new theropod has been named Yuanyanglong bainian.  The species name recognises that it is a hundred years since the naming of the first oviraptorosaur taxon.  In 1924, Oviraptor philoceratops was named and formally described.  Yuanyanglong is known from two fossil specimens recovered from the Lower Cretaceous Miaogou Formation.  The fossils come from the Maortu locality in Chilantai, Inner Mongolia.  Phylogenetic analysis suggests that it is a sister taxon to the clade formed by the Caenagathoidea and the Avimimidae.  It was a small dinosaur standing less than a metre high.

Yuanyanglong bainian scale drawing.

A scale drawing of the recently described oviraptorosaur from Inner Mongolia Yuanyanglong bainian. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Yuanyanglong bainian

The research team, writing in the academic journal Cretaceous Research identified several unique autapomorphies in the fossilised bones.  For example, the hindlimbs are proportionately elongated and they have fused lower segments.  In addition, the ilium (part of the pelvic girdle) has a much reduced postacetabular process.  This combination of anatomical traits is not known in other oviraptorosaurs, however, they are found in extant wading birds.  Yuanyanglong may have lived close to bodies of water.

One of the specimens PV02476-2 consists of a partial and poorly preserved skull.  However, the potential diet of this theropod can only be inferred at this time.  Preserved gastroliths similar to those associated with another oviraptorosaur – Caudipteryx have been recovered.  The research team have stated that preliminary observations indicate potential discrepancies in the digestion mode of early and late-diverging oviraptorosaurs.

The first part of the genus name is derived from “Yuanyang” the mandarin term for lovebirds (Aix galericulata). These birds form long bonds with their partners, a reference to the pair of skeletons found together.  The second part of the genus name “long” is a transliteration of the Chinese word for dragon.  The species or trivial name “bainian” translates as “one hundred years”, reflecting a hundred years since the naming of the first oviraptorosaur taxon Oviraptor philoceratops.

Oviraptor scale drawing.

A scale drawing of a typical oviraptorosaur (O. philoceratops).  The species name of Yuanyanglong bainian commemorates the centenary of the naming of the first oviraptorosaur. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Rare Dinosaur Fossils

The Maortu locality in Chilantai, western Inner Mongolia has produced other vertebrate fossil remains.  However, dinosaur fossils are rare.  Some, as yet, undescribed sauropod remains have been reported.  In addition, three dinosaur taxa are known from this area.  A theropod has been described (Shaochilong maortuensis), along with a hadrosaurid Probactrosaurus gobiensis. In addition, fossils of an armoured dinosaur have been found. Gobisaurus domoculus was named and formally described in 2001 (Vickaryous et al).  Regarded as a member of the Ankylosauridae family Gobisaurus was a large, robust animal.  It may have been over six metres in length and weighed in excess of three tonnes.

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented that further analysis of vertebrate fossil remains from the Maortu locality would likely result in the announcing of new dinosaur taxa.

To read an article from 2016 about the discovery of a oviraptorosaur from southern China (Tongtianlong limosus) that provided new insights into oviraptorosaur radiation: A Fresh Perspective on Oviraptorosaur Radiation.

The scientific paper “A new oviraptorosaur from the Lower Cretaceous Miaogou Formation of western Inner Mongolia, China” by Mingze Hao, Zhiyu Li, Zhili Wang, Shuqiong Wang, Feimin Ma, Qinggele, J. Logan King, Rui Pei, Qi Zhao and Xing Xu published in the journal Cretaceous Research.

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Dinosaur Toys and Figures.

8 11, 2024

New CollectA Models for 2025 – Part 2

By |2024-11-07T21:28:32+00:00November 8th, 2024|CollectA Age of Dinosaurs Popular and CollectA Prehistoric Life Models|2 Comments

Today, we make a second announcement about new CollectA prehistoric animal models for 2025.  A CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale giant short-faced bear model will be available next year.  CollectA seem to have listened carefully to the requests of model collectors, and as a result, they have made a replica of Arctodus simus.  We at Everything Dinosaur are not sure when this prehistoric bear figure will be available. Perhaps, we will be able to stock it in the spring.  CollectA have kindly sent us some exclusive images of this new Arctodus simus model.  We can share some of these images with you.

  • CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale giant short-faced bear (Arctodus simus).
CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus model.

The new for 2025 CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear (Arctodus simus). The figure has a stated scale of 1:20.

The CollectA Deluxe Arctodus simus Model

The CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear is depicted rearing up.  The engineering team should be congratulated as they have created quite a dynamic pose, whilst maintaining the model’s stability.  The figure represents a male, and that white flash on the chest is most distinctive.  The closest living relative to A. simus is the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus).  It too, tends to have a lighter coloured chest compared to the rest of its body, which is mainly covered in black fur.

CollectA Deluxe giant short-faced bear (Arctodus simus).

The image of the CollectA Deluxe 1:20 scale A. simus shows the distinctive short snout of this genus. The figure has a disproportionately short snout compared to extant bears within the Ursinae subfamily (polar bear, black bear, brown bear).

The figure has a disproportionately short snout compared to most living bears.  Hence the common name for this taxon – the giant short-faced bear.

To view the range of CollectA Deluxe prehistoric animal models in stock: CollectA Deluxe Prehistoric Life Figures.

The Giant Short-faced Bear

This giant bear inhabited North America during the Pleistocene Epoch. It had an extensive range. Fossils of A. simus have been found as far south as Mexico and in Canada. Once thought to be almost entirely carnivorous, it is likely that, like most extant bears, it was omnivorous. The CollectA model represents a male. Males were much larger than the females. The largest specimens stood nearly 1.7 metres high at the shoulder and would have weighed nearly a tonne.  When rearing up, a large male could stand around three and a half metres tall.

Isotope analysis of fossil teeth and bones suggests that this bear browsed on vegetation.  However, it also consumed other animals such as deer and tapirs.  Large males probably chased predators off their kills, allowing these big animals to feed on the carcase.  The white flash on the face, neck and chest of the CollectA model would have helped to intimidate both diurnal and nocturnal hunters allowing the bear to take over the kill.

CollectA Arctodus simus model.

The CollectA design team have provided some nice touches of detail on this model. For example, a small fleshy pad can be seen below the left paw. This is the “false thumb” associated with the sesamoid bone. This feature is found in the living member of the Tremarctinae subfamily – the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus). The red arrow points to a torn ear.

The CollectA Arctodus simus Model and the “False Thumb”

The CollectA figure shows lots of detail such as the “false thumb” just below the main pad of the paw.  This hard pad marks the location of the radial sesamoid bone in the wrist.  This anatomical trait is seen in the spectacled bear and also in the distantly related giant panda.  The CollectA figure has a torn right ear (as indicated by the red arrow in the image).

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur confirmed that this figure would be in stock next year (2025), but at this time they were not sure when.

Our thanks to CollectA for sending us these fantastic photographs of their new Arctodus simus model.

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Prehistoric Animal Models and Toys.

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