AI Insight
Scientists discovered a preserved network of fossilized blood vessels inside a broken rib from Scotty, the largest known Tyrannosaurus rex specimen. Using advanced neutron and X-ray imaging techniques, researchers examined the 66-million-year-old bone non-destructively and found rare evidence of the healing process that occurred while the dinosaur was alive. The blood vessel network formed as part of the bone's natural repair mechanism following the injury.
Why it matters
This discovery provides direct evidence of soft tissue structures and biological processes in dinosaurs, offering insights into how these ancient animals healed from injuries. The non-destructive imaging methods demonstrated here could enable similar discoveries in other valuable fossil specimens without risking damage to irreplaceable materials.
Understand the Science
A broken rib from Scotty, the largest known T. rex skeleton, contains an extraordinary fossilized network of blood vessels formed while the dinosaur was healing. Scientists used neutron and X-ray imaging to look inside the 66-million-year-old bone without damaging it, revealing details rarely preserved in fossils.
Source: A broken rib from the world’s largest T. rex hid a 66-million-year-old secret