What is Manipulonyx reshetovi and where was it found?

Manipulonyx reshetovi is a newly described dinosaur species found in the Gobi Desert, Mongolia, notable for its specialized, spiky hand.

How did Manipulonyx reshetovi use its unique hand?

Researchers believe Manipulonyx reshetovi used its spiked hand to grip and snatch eggs, possibly cracking them with its large claw.

When did Manipulonyx reshetovi live?

Manipulonyx reshetovi lived approximately 67 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period.

Home / Science / Dino's Spiky Hand: The Ultimate Egg Thief?

Dino's Spiky Hand: The Ultimate Egg Thief?

11 Jan

•

Summary

A new dinosaur, Manipulonyx reshetovi, possessed a unique spiky hand.
Fossil evidence suggests this dinosaur snatched eggs from other nests.
This discovery occurred in the Gobi Desert, dating back 67 million years.

Dino's Spiky Hand: The Ultimate Egg Thief?

A fossil unearthed in Mongolia's Gobi Desert has unveiled Manipulonyx reshetovi, a dog-sized dinosaur from 67 million years ago possessing a truly unique hand. This creature featured a multi-tooled forelimb with a giant claw, side digits, and spikes, specifically adapted for clutching eggs. The discovery offers compelling evidence for its egg-snatching diet.

The exceptionally preserved skeleton, found in Late Cretaceous rocks, provides crucial details about its articulated carpal bones, reduced side fingers, and hand spikes. Unlike other alvarezsaurids, Manipulonyx's spiked hand suggests a specialized method for gripping and cracking eggshells, likely employed during nocturnal raids on nests.

This finding challenges previous theories about alvarezsaurids, such as digging for insects. The specialized hand of Manipulonyx reshetovi provides a fascinating glimpse into the diverse predatory behaviors and adaptations of dinosaurs during the prehistoric era.