The Big Triceratops and Torosaurus Dinosaur Debate

What if Torosaurus wasn't a separate dinosaur at all? Explore the dinosaur research behind the debate over whether it was actually a mature Triceratops, and how fossil evidence shapes what we know.

Could Torosaurus and Triceratops be different stages of the same dinosaur? Paleo artist Josh Cotton joins us to explore this question and the challenges of interpreting the fossil record. The debate shows how dinosaur research can change our understanding of dinosaur classification as scientists examine the evidence. We also discuss how new dinosaur discoveries and dinosaur research influence paleoart, from reconstructing dinosaur anatomy to depicting prehistoric animals accurately. Cotton shares how he uses digital tools, drawing and scientific evidence to bring extinct animals to life, and why those reconstructions can change as new information emerges. The episode also explores the history of Ultrasaurus and Ultrasauros, two names associated with a complicated story of fossil identification and classification. These examples reveal how paleontology connects fossil discoveries, dinosaur science and the ongoing effort to understand the prehistoric world.

Interview with paleo-artist Josh Cotton, who works at the Brigham Young University Museum. Also dinosaur news, including dinosaur eggs found in China and a nearly complete Kronosaurus jaw found in Australia. And, dinosaur of the day Ultrasaurus/Ultrasauros, the Korean/American sauropod described using potentially dubious evidence.

Visit http://www.IknowDino.com for more information including a link to dinosaur sites near you.

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