Volume 108 (2021) Fascículo I

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History of the discovery of the ankylosaur Dracopelta zbyszewskii (Upper Jurassic), with new data about the type specimen and its locality
Publication . Russo, João; Mateus, Octávio
Abstract: Dracopelta zbyszewskii is a poorly known ankylosaur dinosaur from the Upper Jurassic of Portugal. Even its early history has hitherto remained problematic, mostly due to scarce recorded information. By reviewing published literature, unpublished photos and notes, and field observations, we identify the type locality as a roadcut 400 m Southeast of Praia da Assenta Sul, approximately 1 km West of Barril, Mafra. Western Portugal, and date the discovery to early 1964 and the excavation to December 1964. This improves the existing records and allows to trace the early history of the holotype, providing important historical context on one of the most complete ankylosaurs from Europe. Furthermore, we preliminarily identify additional holotype material, i.e., putative pelvic elements, right hindlimb elements (distal femur, tibia, and fibula), one ungual, ribs, and osteoderms, which will help ascertain its position within Ankylosauria. We also propose that a single repository number be used for the specimen.
2021-11Journal article Open access Show more