Science
UCLA researchers estimate Tyrannosaurus rex body temperature near human levels
Jalopnik reports that isotope analysis of fossil tooth enamel points to a body temperature around 97.3 degrees.
The short version
- A UCLA team analyzing tooth enamel determined that Tyrannosaurus rex maintained an internal body temperature of roughly 97.3 degrees Fahrenheit, according to a study in Science Advances.[Jalopnik]
- For comparison, tests conducted on ancient crocodile teeth yielded an estimated temperature of 88 degrees Fahrenheit.[Jalopnik]
- The findings add to recent research on the dinosaur's movement, including fossil tracks showing a 3.5 to 4.5 mph walking pace and modeled sprint speeds for smaller specimens.[Jalopnik]
Key facts
- UCLA researchers published a study in Science Advances concluding Tyrannosaurus rex had an internal body temperature of 97.3 degrees Fahrenheit, plus or minus 4.5 degrees.[Jalopnik]
- The scientists analyzed isotopes in tooth enamel molecules to measure the dinosaur's temperature.[Jalopnik]
- Tests on ancient crocodile teeth analyzed by the researchers indicated a temperature of 88 degrees Fahrenheit.[Jalopnik]
- Separate fossil tracks found in North Dakota indicated an adult T. rex walked at approximately 3.5 to 4.5 mph.[Jalopnik]
What remains uncertain
- The estimated body temperature includes an uncertainty range of plus or minus 4.5 degrees Fahrenheit.[Jalopnik]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.