UK Scientist Discovers New Dinosaur Species with Sail-Like Spine on Isle of Wight

A newly discovered dinosaur species named Istiorachis macaruthurae has been identified on the Isle of Wight, United Kingdom, by Dr. Jeremy Lockwood, a retired GP and PhD student at the University of Portsmouth and the Natural History Museum. This iguanodontian dinosaur is distinguished by its elongated neural spines forming a distinctive sail-like structure along its back and tail, which researchers believe was likely used for visual signaling, possibly as part of sexual display. Previously misclassified as belonging to known iguanodontian species, the fossil's unique features prompted a thorough reexamination leading to its recognition as a new species. The dinosaur's name honors Dame Ellen MacArthur, a famed yachtswoman from the Isle of Wight, reflecting both the sail-like anatomy and local heritage. The study, published in the journal Papers in Palaeontology, highlights the importance of revisiting museum collections and contributes to understanding the evolutionary diversity of iguanodontians. Experts note that such extravagant features often evolve through sexual selection rather than practical functions like heat regulation or fat storage.