Science
Study estimates T. rex body temperature was similar to humans
Fossil tooth enamel from Montana yielded an estimated temperature of around 36°C in research published in Science Advances.
The short version
- Researchers estimated that T. rex had a body temperature around 36°C, similar to modern humans, using isotopes in fossilized tooth enamel.[Scientific American]
- The findings provide an indirect estimate from fossil chemistry, not a direct measurement of a living dinosaur’s temperature.[Scientific American]
Key facts
- Researchers estimated a T. rex body temperature of around 36°C, similar to modern humans.[Scientific American]
- The estimate came from isotope measurements in fossilized tooth enamel found in Montana.[Scientific American]
- The study was published Wednesday in Science Advances.[Scientific American · CNET]
What remains uncertain
- The temperature is an estimate inferred from fossil chemistry, not a direct observation of a living T. rex.[Scientific American]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.