Alpkarakush is an extinct genus of theropod dinosaurs that lived during the Middle Jurassic period, specifically in an area now known as Kyrgyzstan.
The name of the genus comes from a mythical powerful bird mentioned in the Epic of Manas. It is made up of one species, called Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus.
Discovery and Naming
Fossils of Alpkarakush were found in the Balabansai Formation, a location in the Uurusai Valley near Tashkumyr. Initial discoveries were made between 2005 and 2006 when researchers found two partial skeletons. More fossils were uncovered in the following years, leading to the discovery of several bones and teeth from at least two different individuals.
The main specimen, known as the holotype, included parts of the skull, several vertebrae, ribs, a limb bone, and much of the hindlimb bones. A smaller specimen, called the paratype, had part of the pelvic bone and the right tibia.
In 2024, a team led by Rauhut officially described the species and gave it its name.
Description
Alpkarakush was a large predator, estimated to have been around 7 to 8 meters long. It had a high and arched skull with slender hindlimbs. One interesting feature is a prominent brow area over its eyes, which is very noticeable in Alpkarakush.
The scientists also found that the larger specimen was at least 17 years old when it died, indicating it was still growing at that age. The smaller specimen was younger and might have been a juvenile or small subadult.
Classification
In terms of classification, Alpkarakush belongs to a group of dinosaurs known as the metriacanthosaurids, which are a type of theropod. Researchers placed it within this group based on specific features observed in its fossils.
This dinosaur adds to our understanding of the diversity of predatory dinosaurs that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. Its discovery helps paleontologists piece together the history of life during the Jurassic period.