A new study challenging previous research on the intelligence of Tyrannosaurus rex has ignited a debate among scientists at Vanderbilt University and Heinrich Heine University.
Lead by Vanderbilt neuroscientist Suzana Herculano-Houzel, the study compared the brain size of T. rex to that of primates, suggesting a more holistic approach to assessing the intelligence of extinct animals. However, Heinrich Heine University’s Kai Caspar, the lead author of the new study, claims that dinosaur brains were actually comparable in size to living reptiles.
The disagreement between Herculano-Houzel and Caspar highlights the challenges in estimating brain size and neuron count in dinosaur fossils. This has led to uncertainties about the intelligence of T. rex, with paleontologist Thomas Holtz admitting the difficulty in measuring intelligence in ancient animals.
Despite the controversy, researchers agree that T. rex likely had a level of intelligence somewhere between crocodiles and living birds and mammals. Herculano-Houzel defends her findings while Caspar calls them flawed, but both sides acknowledge the need for further research to fully understand the intelligence of Tyrannosaurus rex and other dinosaurs.
As the debate continues, scientists are hopeful that advancements in technology and new discoveries will provide a clearer picture of the cognitive abilities of these ancient creatures. Stay tuned to Mazmessenger for more updates on this fascinating topic.
By Will Dunham.
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