Chinese scientists have unveiled a new species of Early Jurassic sauropod dinosaur, named Xingxiulong yueorum. This remarkable discovery is based on a fossilized skeleton excavated in Yunnan Province, a region in southwestern China known for its rich paleontological sites.
The fossil, initially found in 2015 in Lufeng City, is exceptionally well-preserved. It includes significant portions of the skeleton from the second dorsal vertebra to the twentieth caudal vertebra, along with the left scapula and nearly complete girdle and hind limbs. Such comprehensive preservation offers invaluable insights into the anatomy and lifestyle of sauropods during the Early Jurassic period.
Researchers are excited about the potential this discovery holds for understanding the diversity and evolution of sauropod dinosaurs in Asia. Xingxiulong yueorum adds to the growing list of dinosaur species that highlight the region's crucial role in paleontological research. This finding not only enriches scientific knowledge but also underscores the significance of ongoing fossil discoveries in Yunnan Province.
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Scientists identify new sauropod dinosaur species in SW China
cgtn.com
