First European Diplodocus fossil unearthed in Spain reshapes Jurassic migration theories
Paleontologists have uncovered a complete Diplodocus skeleton in eastern Spain, the first of its kind found outside the United States.
A team excavating the La Tejería locality in eastern Spain recovered a full Diplodocus skeleton, marking the first European specimen of the iconic long-necked dinosaur previously known only from the Morrison Formation in the western United States. The bones, dated to roughly 150 million years ago, include 14 tail vertebrae and other exceptionally preserved elements that display characteristic air-filled cavities and Y-shaped tail structures.
Scientists interpret the find as evidence of faunal exchange via temporary land bridges as the proto-North Atlantic regressed. Comparative analysis places the Spanish individual close to Diplodocus hallorum, measuring about 25 metres in length. The fossil now resides in the dinosaur hall of the Museo Aragonés de Paleontología at Dinópolis, enhancing Teruel's reputation for Jurassic sauropod diversity alongside Turiasaurus and Losillasauru.
Why it matters
The find shows dinosaurs migrated across ancient seas, revising our view of Jurassic biogeography.
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