A New Dinosaur Species Unveiled
On June 5, 2023, paleontologists announced the identification of a previously unknown dinosaur species named Jian changmaensis. Found in China’s Changma Basin, this feathered relative of the velociraptor is also one of the largest microraptors ever recorded, boasting a wingspan of roughly 1.2 meters. The findings were published in the scientific journal Annals of the Carnegie Museum.
The second part of its name, 'changmaensis,' refers to the fossil’s discovery site in the Changma Basin, where researchers have uncovered over a hundred bird fossils. Notably, Jian changmaensis is the only non-avian dinosaur specimen recovered from this region. This new specimen matched the size of a barn owl and featured long feathers on all four of its limbs. Paleontologists identified the dinosaur’s upper forelimb bone, which measured 10 centimeters in length.
“Jian changmaensis demonstrates that non-avian dinosaurs inhabited what is now the Changma Basin, an area famous for its fossil birds.”
Matt Lamanna, Carnegie Museum of Natural History
The discovery of Jian changmaensis marks a significant step in understanding dinosaur evolution and their connection to modern birds. This find highlights the Changma Basin as a critical site for studying bird and dinosaur fossils, opening new avenues for exploring the ecological conditions in which these species thrived. Research on such discoveries can profoundly shape our understanding of avian development and evolutionary history.
“Jian provides critical new insight into the biological history of the Changma region and the ecological context of modern birds’ ancestors.”
Matt Lamanna, Carnegie Museum of Natural History
This exciting discovery of a massive site with thousands of dinosaur tracks further emphasizes the significance of the Changma Basin as a hotspot for paleontological research. As scientists continue to uncover these remarkable finds, they are piecing together the complex history of dinosaur evolution and their interactions with early avian species.