The Wankel T. Rex: A New Theory
In The Wankel T. Rex: A New Theory, Jack Horner, one of the world's most respected paleontologists, discusses how the arms of T. rex were too small for it to be an effective predator. This video is excerpted from BBC's Horizon: T. Rex, Warrior or Wimp?, a documentary featuring interviews with T. rex experts from around the world and exploring the science behind the legend of the dinosaur we love to hate.
Horizon tells amazing science stories, unravels mysteries and reveals worlds you've never seen before. Learn more.
Lesson Express
Q: What was the significance of the size of the arm of T. rex? What other conclusions can you gather about T. rex knowing the size of its arm?
A: T. rex had very short arms compared with its massive body, much shorter than other predatory dinosaurs. The size of its arms raises questions about how T. rex hunted and captured prey.
Q: What is the difference between T. rex and a predatory animal?
A: T. rex’s arms were not very useful for capturing food. Other predatory animals use their limbs to hold onto animals or to help with movement during a chase. This makes scientists question how T. rex hunted and whether it relied only on its bite or used other strategies.
Q: What do you think needs to be studied more about T. rex after the findings that question whether or not it was a predatory dinosaur?
A: Once scientists discovered that T. rex's arms were small, scientists needed to study their hunting strategies. They could look at other features like speed, bite force, and teeth to understand how T. rex hunted for prey.
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