New 'scimitar-crested' Spinosaurus species discovered in the central Sahara
Phys.org
February 19, 2026
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A newly discovered species of Spinosaurus, named *Spinosaurus mirabilis*, has been uncovered in the central Sahara region of Niger, marking a significant advancement in our understanding of spinosaurid evolution. This fossil discovery, led by a 20-person international team including renowned paleontologist Paul Sereno, Ph.D., provides critical insights into the closing stages of these unique predators' evolutionary history. Found at a remote and challenging location in the Sahara, this find adds to the growing body of evidence about spinosaurids, which are known for their distinctive sail-backed spines and their status as some of the largest predators during the Cretaceous period.
The discovery of *Spinosaurus mirabilis* is particularly notable because it bridges a gap in the fossil record. Spinosaurids have been found in various regions, including Egypt and Morocco, but this new species represents one of the most complete examples yet discovered in Niger. The fossils, which include bones from both the skull and skeleton, reveal unique features that set *Spinosaurus mirabilis* apart from other known spinosaurid species. These characteristics suggest a specialized adaptation to its environment, possibly indicating a diet or ecological niche distinct from its relatives.
This finding is significant for several reasons. First, it underscores the importance of exploring remote and underexplored regions like the central Sahara, where new species can still be discovered despite the challenges of such environments. Second, it provides valuable data about the evolution of spinosaurids, particularly during the late Cretaceous period when these creatures were among the apex predators in their ecosystems. By studying *Spinosaurus mirabilis*, scientists hope to better understand how and why spinosaurids diversified so extensively before eventually going extinct.
For readers interested in science, this discovery highlights the ongoing nature of paleontological research and the ways in which new fossils can reshape our understanding of prehistory. The central Sahara, often seen as a harsh and uninviting environment, continues to yield treasures that challenge existing knowledge about life on Earth millions of years ago. *Spinosaurus mir
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/19/2026