Complex neuroanatomy in the rostrum of the Isle of Wight theropod Neovenator salerii.

摘要: The discovery of large, complex, internal canals within the rostra fossil reptiles has been linked with an enhanced tactile function utilised in aquatic context, so far pliosaurids, Cretaceous theropod Spinosaurus, and related spinosaurid Baryonyx. Here, we report presence a complex network laterally situated, anastomosing channels, discovered via micro-focus computed tomography (μCT), premaxilla maxilla Neovenator, mid-sized allosauroid from Early UK. We identify these channels as neurovascular canals, that include parts trigeminal nerve; many branches this terminate on external surfaces where they are associated foramina. Neovenator is universally regarded ‘typical’ terrestrial, predatory theropod, there no indications it was aquatic, amphibious, or unusual respect to ecology behaviour predicted for allosauroids. Accordingly, propose enlarged facial shouldn’t be used exclusively support model foraging theropods argue instead degree sensitivity may have any number alternative behavioural adaptations, among them defleshing behaviour, nest selection/maintenance social interaction.