New Study Suggests Dinosaurs May Have Had Lips
A surprising new study by Thomas Cullen, a paleontology professor at Auburn University, has caught the attention of scientists and the public alike. In a research paper published in a science magazine, Cullen speculated that dinosaurs, specifically Tyrannosaurus rex, may have had lips. This speculation has led to a rethinking of our long-held perceptions of these prehistoric creatures.
For years, the popular image of dinosaurs has been one of sharp teeth exposed without any covering. Many people have compared dinosaurs to crocodiles, assuming that their teeth were always on display. However, Cullen’s research has challenged this idea. By studying the enamel wear on the teeth of existing crocodiles, Cullen and his team found that the outer enamel wears away faster due to the lack of lip protection.
In contrast, when the researchers examined the teeth of large tyrannosaurs, they found that there was little difference in the thickness of their inner and outer enamel. This suggests that these dinosaurs may have had lips to protect their teeth, a feature that was previously overlooked. To visualize this new understanding, some media outlets used artificial intelligence technology to create images of dinosaurs with lips, including a “sexy lip-filled Tyrannosaurus.”
While these images may be more imaginative than accurate, they have sparked discussions among paleontologists and the general public. The traditional image of a toothy, lipless dinosaur is being challenged, and a new perspective on how these creatures may have looked is emerging.
To learn more about this groundbreaking study and see the illustrations of dinosaurs with lips, visit the Auburn University website.