An international team of researchers recently made a groundbreaking discovery regarding the respiratory system of an extinct dinosaur species, Heterodontosaurus tucki, using advanced X-ray technology at the European Synchrotron facility, the ESRF in Grenoble, France. This remarkable study, published in eLife on July 6, 2021, sheds new light on how this 200-million-year-old plant-eating dinosaur breathed.

The fossil of Heterodontosaurus tucki, unearthed in 2009 in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, proved to be a treasure trove of information. The most complete specimen of its kind ever found, it provided invaluable insights into the evolution of dinosaurs. With the help of cutting-edge scans and innovative algorithms developed by ESRF scientists, the research team was able to digitally reconstruct the skeleton of Heterodontosaurus in unprecedented detail, revealing its unique breathing mechanism.

Contrary to previous assumptions that dinosaurs breathed like birds, the study uncovered that Heterodontosaurus had distinctive features in its respiratory system. Its paddle-shaped ribs and small bones allowed it to expand both its chest and belly to facilitate breathing. This finding challenges preconceived notions about dinosaur respiration and provides a deeper understanding of the biological adaptations that allowed certain dinosaurs to thrive in their environments.

Heterodontosaurus belongs to the Ornithischian group of dinosaurs, which includes iconic species like Triceratops and Stegosaurus. Living during the early Jurassic period, Heterodontosaurus survived a previous extinction event, making it a crucial species for understanding dinosaur evolution. By studying how this dinosaur breathed, paleontologists can gain valuable insights into the factors that contributed to the success or extinction of different dinosaur species.

The research team’s collaboration across international borders highlights the importance of shared expertise and resources in advancing scientific knowledge. The use of the ESRF’s high-energy X-rays enabled the researchers to examine the complete dinosaur specimen with unparalleled detail, uncovering a new aspect of dinosaur biology.

This study underscores the diversity of life on Earth and the myriad ways in which organisms have evolved to carry out essential functions like breathing. By identifying a novel breathing strategy in Heterodontosaurus, the researchers have added a critical piece to the puzzle of dinosaur evolution, showcasing the incredible adaptability of life on our planet.

The significance of South Africa’s fossil record in illuminating evolutionary origins is once again emphasized by this research, underscoring the country’s rich paleontological heritage and its contribution to our understanding of prehistoric life. This study exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge technology in unlocking the secrets of the past.