Molecular analysis confirms T. rex's evolutionary link to birds

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Using genetic sequencing scientists have conclusively linked the dinosaur T. rex with birds and the mastadon with modern elephants. Credit: Zina Deretsky National Science Foundation
Using genetic sequencing, scientists have conclusively linked the dinosaur T. rex with birds and the mastadon with modern elephants. Credit: Zina Deretsky, National Science Foundation

Putting more meat on the theory that dinosaurs’ closest living relatives are modern-day birds, molecular analysis of a shred of 68-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex protein – along with that of 21 modern species – confirms that dinosaurs share common ancestry with chickens, ostriches, and to a lesser extent, alligators.


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