Brazilian researchers discover dinosaur fossil after heavy rains

Brazilian researchers have discovered a fossilized skeleton believed to be one of the world's oldest dinosaurs in Rio Grande do Sul, following heavy rains that accelerated natural erosion. The fossil, estimated to be around 233 million years old, was found near a reservoir in the municipality of Sao Joao do Polesine by a team from the Federal University of Santa Maria, led by paleontologist Rodrigo Temp Müller. The dinosaur is thought to have lived during the Triassic period, a time when all continents were part of the supercontinent Pangaea. It belongs to the Herrerasauridae family, which roamed areas that are now Brazil and Argentina. The fossilized remains suggest the dinosaur was approximately 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) long.

Müller expressed excitement over the discovery, noting that after four days of excavation, the team uncovered what appears to be an almost complete skeleton. They are now working to determine if the fossil represents a known species or a new one, a process that may take several months. The heavy rains have increased the likelihood of fossil discoveries by exposing buried materials, although they have also caused significant flooding in the region. Müller emphasized the importance of this find for understanding dinosaur origins, as well-preserved fossils can provide valuable insights into this area of research.