New Spinosaurus species discovered in the Sahara
Feb 22nd 2026
An international team led by Paul Sereno uncovered Spinosaurus mirabilis in Niger during a 2022 expedition, with the results published in Science.
- Researchers recovered the fossils in Niger during a 2022 expedition led by Paul Sereno and published the findings in the journal Science.
- The new species is named Spinosaurus mirabilis and is estimated at about 95 million years old and roughly the size of Tyrannosaurus rex.
- A distinctive scimitar-shaped crest covered in keratin confirmed the specimen as a previously unknown species.
- Interlocking teeth and limb anatomy indicate a fish-eating, wading lifestyle rather than a fully aquatic existence.
- Finding these remains far inland supports a non-marine habit and helps clarify Spinosaurus distribution between Africa and South America.