Irritator is a type of dinosaur known as a spinosaurid that roamed what is now Brazil during the Early Cretaceous Period, around 110 million years ago. Fossils of this dinosaur were found in the Romualdo Formation, which is famous for its well-preserved fossils.
The first discovery of Irritator was made when a skull, which was heavily damaged, was sold to a museum. This skull became the main example used to study this dinosaur and was named Irritator challengeri. The name “Irritator” comes from the word “irritation,” since paleontologists were frustrated by how the skull had been altered before being discovered.
Irritator was estimated to be about 20 to 26 feet long and weighed around 1 ton. It had a long, narrow snout filled with conical teeth—which means they were shaped like cones but didn’t have sharp edges. These teeth were perfect for catching fish and other small prey. A crest ran along the top of its head, likely used for muscle attachment, which would help it with quick movements while hunting.
Originally, paleontologists thought Irritator was a type of flying reptile. However, further studies in 1996 showed it was actually a theropod dinosaur, which is a group that includes many meat-eaters like T. rex.
Another dinosaur called Angaturama was found in the same area around the same time, and some scientists believe it might be the same as Irritator due to similarities in their features. However, more evidence is needed to confirm this.
Irritator likely had a varied diet that included not just fish, but also small dinosaurs and possibly pterosaurs, which are flying reptiles. Its long snout and unique teeth suggest that it could hunt both in water and on land.
Fossils of Irritator were discovered in a special area known for its excellent fossil preservation, which helps scientists understand more about dinosaurs and the environments they lived in. The climate at that time was tropical with lush plant life, and the area was filled with various species of pterosaurs, turtles, and fish.
In recent years, discussions around the legality of fossil ownership have brought attention to the need for ethical practices in paleontology. Some want the original of the Irritator skull to be returned to Brazil, as there are concerns about how it was obtained.
In summary, Irritator is a fascinating dinosaur that played a significant role in the ancient ecosystem of Brazil, showcasing the diversity of life during the Early Cretaceous Period.