Researchers are questioning the authenticity of a mosasaur fossil discovered in Morocco, central to the classification of Xenodens calminechari. Inconsistencies in the fossil’s structure raise doubts about its credibility. Calls for CT scans to verify authenticity are growing, emphasizing the necessity of thorough scientific examination.
Concerns regarding the authenticity of a mosasaur fossil from Morocco have emerged, notably connected to the classification of the species Xenodens calminechari, estimated to have existed between 72 to 66 million years ago. This fossil, central to its classification, exhibits unusual features that question its validity, according to recent research. The 2021 study which introduced this species is now scrutinized due to inconsistencies in the fossil’s morphology and provenance.
The mosasaur fossil was located in a phosphate mine in Morocco, a region notorious for fossils that may contain altered elements. The original study published in The Anatomical Record presented this fossil as a new species based on its unique characteristics. However, researchers have expressed concerns about discrepancies in the jawbone and teeth structure that contradict known biological traits of mosasaurs, prompting calls for deeper investigation.
The debate surrounding the mosasaur fossil’s authenticity highlights the critical need for further investigation in paleontological research. Researchers are advocating for advanced imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, to assess its true nature. This situation underscores the importance of scientific transparency and integrity, insisting that holotype specimens remain accessible for review and verification.
Original Source: www.gadgets360.com
