Researchers from Poland, Sweden, Norway and Hungary used advanced imaging techniques to examine coprolites (feces), revealing undigested remains of plant matter and animal prey, which allowed them to reconstruct ancient ecosystems.
The findings, published in the scientific journal Nature, provide fascinating insights into how early dinosaurs adapted to their environment, contributing to their supremacy during the Triassic and Jurassic periods.
The study focused on a previously overlooked region in the northern reaches of Pangaea, a supercontinent that existed between 350 and 180 million years ago.
By combining data from the coprolites with fossilized bite marks, footprints and bones, the researchers were able to piece together a comprehensive picture of the ancient ecosystems.
Their work revealed how the first dinosaurs adapted, diversified and eventually rose to dominance.
This research, based on material collected over the past 25 years, has provided unprecedented insights into the biology of early dinosaurs, specifically their dietary preferences.
The coprolites contained a variety of remains, including fish, insect parts and bones, which indicated that some dinosaurs were already practicing behaviors like osteophagy (eating bones).
The researchers found that coprolites from early herbivorous dinosaurs (sauropodomorphs) contained large amounts of tree ferns, plants and even charcoal, possibly consumed to detoxify the stomach, as ferns can be toxic in large quantities.
According to the scientists, the research fills a gap in understanding the first 30 million years of dinosaur evolution and presents a five-stage model for their origins.
By studying how the first dinosaurs adapted to their environment, scientists are gaining valuable insights into the broader processes of evolution.
