Nature Podcast Meet the ‘Wee-rex’. Tiny tyrannosaur is its own species
Nov 5, 2025
In this engaging discussion, paleontologist Lawrence Whitmer tackles the Nanotyrannus debate, revealing it as a distinct species rather than a juvenile T. rex, based on new fossil evidence. Reporter Nick Petridge-Howe and researcher Bruno Simões shed light on a promising antiprogestin therapy trial that shows potential in preventing breast cancer by altering tissue markers. The conversation delves into the implications for future cancer treatment, making it a must-listen for science enthusiasts.
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Nanotyrannus Likely Its Own Species
- New limb-bone analyses show a well-preserved Nanotyrannus specimen was a near-adult, not a juvenile T. rex.
- This implies Nanotyrannus likely represents a distinct, much smaller tyrannosaur species rather than young T. rex.
How The Nanotyrannus Debate Began
- The Nanotyrannus story began with a 1940s specimen first named as gorgosaurus and later reclassified as Nanotyrannus in 1988.
- Its discovery in Hell Creek alongside T. rex sparked debate over whether it was a separate species or juvenile T. rex.
Access To Fossils Shapes Conclusions
- Many relevant tyrannosaur specimens were held by private collectors and were inaccessible to scientists.
- Making key fossils available in museums enables proper study and can resolve long-standing debates.