Spinosaur Tales: The Biology and Ecology of the Spinosaurs

Paleontologists Hone (Uncovering Dinosaur Behavior) and Witton (King Tyrant) deliver a comprehensive overview of modern research into spinosaurs, the dinosaur group that contains the Spinosaurus, possibly the largest land predator ever to exist. The giant carnivores were launched into mainstream culture with 2001’s Jurassic Park III, in which a menacing Spinosaurus vanquishes the once-almighty Tyrannosaurus rex, though many liberties were taken in their portrayal. Scientists, the authors explain, have few fossils of spinosaurs to go off of (the first ones discovered were destroyed by Allied bombing during WWII), and as a result much about the biology and lifestyle of these dinosaurs remains mysterious. Hone and Witton summarize the current state of spinosaur research, revealing that the creatures were diverse eaters, consuming mostly fish and aquatic animals but also capable of hunting prey on land. Their most notable feature—a large sail running along its back—may have been used to attract mates or deflect rivals. At times the authors’ explanations are bogged down by technical details, but they effectively demonstrate how scientific reasoning permits paleontologists to reach tentative conclusions in the face of serious lacuna. Dinosaur enthusiasts will find much of interest. (Jan.)