Diplodocus fossils discovered in Spain provide first evidence outside North America

Paleontologists from the Dinópolis Foundation have discovered the first skeletal evidence of the Diplodocus genus in Europe. The fossils were recovered from the La Tejería site in El Castellar, Teruel, Spain.

The find consists of 14 exceptionally well-preserved caudal vertebrae and several chevron bones dating back approximately 150 million years to the Late Jurassic period. Researchers identified the specimen as Diplodocus sp. based on specific anatomical traits, including large pneumatic cavities within the vertebrae and elongated vertebral centers.

This discovery is significant as it provides strong evidence for the exchange of fauna between North America and Europe during the Late Jurassic. At that time, the Atlantic Ocean was much narrower, potentially allowing for land-based migration via ephemeral land bridges or sea regressions. Previously, confirmed Diplodocus fossils had been found almost exclusively in the Morrison Formation of the United States.