Triceratops had a giant nose that may have cooled its massive head
Science Daily
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Triceratops, the iconic horned dinosaur, had an unusually large and complex nasal structure that went far beyond just smelling. Researchers from the University of Tokyo used CT scans and 3D reconstructions of fossilized skulls to uncover intricate networks of nerves, blood vessels, and specialized structures within its massive snout. Their findings suggest that Triceratops’ oversized nose served multiple functions, including regulating body temperature and moisture, in addition to detecting smells.
The study revealed that the dinosaur’s nasal passages were uniquely adapted to accommodate its large鼻腔. Unlike most reptiles, where nerves and blood vessels enter the nostrils through the jaw, Triceratops’ skull anatomy forced these pathways to reroute through the nasal region. This evolutionary adaptation allowed for a highly efficient system of heat exchange, potentially helping the dinosaur manage its body temperature despite its massive head. The researchers also identified signs of respiratory turbinates—scroll-shaped bones that increase surface area inside the nasal cavity—similar to those found in birds and mammals. These structures likely played a key role in stabilizing internal conditions, such as regulating moisture and heat.
The research highlights how even the most iconic dinosaurs still hold secrets waiting to be uncovered. By combining advanced imaging techniques with comparative anatomy studies of living animals like birds and crocodiles, the team pieced together the soft-tissue anatomy hidden within Triceratops’ fossilized skulls.
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/22/2026