[Rockhounds] Isle of Wight: New dinosaur species discovered

[Kreigh Tomaszewski]

*The fossilised remains of a previously unknown type of dinosaur have been
found on the Isle of Wight.*

It is the first new species of armoured dinosaur to be found on the island
since 1865 and belongs to the same family - the ankylosaurs.

Though fearsome in appearance with its blade-like armour, the giant reptile
- which has been named Vectipelta barretti - only ate plants.

It was discovered in rocks dating back between 66 and 145 million years.

The name Vectipelta barretti is a tip of the hat to Professor Paul Barrett,
who has worked at the Natural History Museum in London for 20 years.

He said he was "flattered and absolutely delighted to have been recognised
in this way", and insisted "that any physical resemblance is purely
accidental".

Though the new dinosaur bears some similarities to the last ankylosaur
discovered on the island - called Polacanthus foxii - scientists do not
think the two species were very closely related.

As well as having different neck, back and pelvic bones, the recent find
would have had more spiked armour, scientists say.


https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-65924583