This dinosaur is called “Spicomellus,” and it is the oldest known member of the armored dinosaur group known as the “ankylosaurs,” according to Western media sources. Spicomellus is approximately 4 meters long and weighs between one and two tons. This herbivorous dinosaur, which walks on four legs, is characterized by its slow movement and its unique armor composed of sharp spikes, some of which reach up to one meter in length, distributed along its ribs and a collar around its neck resembling golf clubs. Researchers noted that this armor likely served two purposes: defense against large predatory dinosaurs and attracting mates during the mating season.
Butler added, “It’s hard to imagine how these massive spikes were used solely for defense, suggesting they might also have been used in mating displays or competition among individuals.” She added, “It’s likely that these spikes were used in courtship or competitions between members of the same species.” The discovery of Spicomellus is a significant addition to our understanding of the evolution of armored dinosaurs and highlights the unique diversity that thrived in Morocco during the Jurassic period.
