China dinosaur fossil discovery reveals unique skin spikes

Scientists have identified a 125-million-year-old dinosaur fossil in China that may reveal previously unknown anatomical features. The specimen, a young herbivore named Haolong dongi, exhibits hollow spikes rising from its skin, similar to porcupine quills.

The fossil is notable for its extraordinary preservation, with soft tissue and individual skin cells still visible. Researchers suggest these spikes may have served for defense, thermoregulation, or as sensory structures. The findings were published in Nature Ecology & Evolution.