The mystery of Deinocheirus, a dinosaur known primarily for its enigmatic giant arms, has finally been solved after more than 50 years. Researchers have discovered two well-preserved specimens of this dinosaur, shedding light on its previously elusive appearance and habits.
Deinocheirus mirificus, which translates to “terrible or horrible hand” and “unusual” in Greek, was first discovered during the 1965 Polish-Mongolian Paleontological Expedition in the southern Gobi Desert of Mongolia. The expedition uncovered the arms, hands, and shoulder girdle of this intriguing dinosaur. However, the rest of its body remained a mystery.
For years, paleontologists speculated about the creature’s appearance and behavior, as only its arms and hands were known. Some believed Deinocheirus was a massive theropod dinosaur, significantly larger than the diminutive-armed Tyrannosaurus rex.
The recent discovery of two well-preserved Deinocheirus specimens and some bones recovered from poachers has provided a more comprehensive understanding of this dinosaur.
These remains constitute approximately 95 percent of the creature’s skeleton. The fossils reveal a dinosaur with a bizarre appearance, characterized by a horse-like head, humpback, and massive arms containing three eight-inch claws.
Furthermore, researchers discovered that Deinocheirus had a long tongue, which it likely used to suck up plants from the bottoms of rivers and lakes. It also consumed substantial amounts of aquatic prey, such as fish, indicating its swimming and diving abilities.
The fossils contain preserved stomach contents, including fish vertebrae and scales, providing insights into its diet and behavior. Deinocheirus had a broad build, wide hips, big feet, and broad toes, which helped it navigate water without sinking into the mud.
The findings have not only solved the long-standing mystery surrounding Deinocheirus but have also revealed the creature’s incredible and unique features, making it one of the most peculiar dinosaurs ever discovered.
Stephen Brusatte of the University of Edinburgh commented on the discovery, stating, “These new specimens really solve the mystery once and for all,” and they show that Deinocheirus was even stranger than anyone could have imagined.
While it’s amazing to finally unveil the appearance of Deinocheirus after decades of speculation, it also marks the end of a mystery that sparked countless imaginations and speculations about the nature of this enigmatic dinosaur.