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A dinosaur discovered on the Isle of Wight has been named Istiorachis macarthurae, after record-breaking sailor Dame Ellen MacArthur. This newly identified species of dinosaur had a distinctive “eye-catching sail” running along its back. The name Istiorachis is derived from “sail spine” in tribute to the prominent feature of the dinosaur, while the term macarthurae is in reference to Dame Ellen MacArthur’s surname.
Dame Ellen MacArthur expressed her gratitude for the honor, stating, “The fact that the Istiorachis ‘sail’ could be likened to the sails I have spent so much of my life below was very touching.” The medium-sized herbivore lived approximately 125 million years ago and once roamed the floodplains of what is now the island’s south-west coast. Fossil hunter Nick Chase originally discovered its remains in the area before passing away in 2019.
Dr. Jeremy Lockwood, who analyzed the fossils, highlighted the unusual nature of the dinosaur’s long neural spines. He suggested that these sail-like formations may have been used for display purposes, possibly to attract mates or intimidate rivals. The bones of Istiarchis macarthurae have provided valuable insights into the evolution of such features in dinosaurs.
Dame Ellen MacArthur further shared her astonishment at having a dinosaur named after her, calling it “both extraordinary and a huge honor.” She reflected on the connection between the dinosaur’s sail and the sails of the yachts she spent much of her life sailing beneath. It is a unique tribute to link a creature from millions of years ago to her family name, adding to her remarkable legacy as a record-breaking sailor
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