Nanotryannus Tooth on Ceratopsian bone fragment | Hell Creek Formation | South Dakota

Nanotyrannus lancensis
Late Cretaceous (~66 million years ago)
Hell Creek Formation
Perkins County, South Dakota

Tooth approx. dimensions: 1"

Specimen approx. dimensions: 1.75" x 1.25" x 1"

This specimen comes in a 6.25" x 5.25" x 1.25" padded display box.

Nanotyrranus means "dwarf tyrant", alluding to its miniature size compared to other members of its presumed subfamily, Tyrannosaurinae. It is highly debated as to whether Nanotyrannus is a valid genus, or if a specimen is actually a juvenile Tyrannosaurus.

Nanotyrannus was a carnivorous dinosaur that probably hunted smaller, faster dinosaurs such as juvenile hadrosaurs and ceratopsians, relying on its agility and speed. Its diet focused on smaller prey, differing from the large animals targeted by mature T. rex. Some researchers also suggest that Nanotyrannus may have scavenged carrion.

Ceratopsians were herbivorous, beaked dinosaurs characterized by their distinctive skull ornamentation, including a parrot-like rostral beak, a bony frill extending from the back of the skull, and often elaborate facial horns. They thrived during the Late Cretaceous. Species such as Triceratops and Torosaurus were large, quadrupedal grazers. Their frills and horns likely served roles in defense, species recognition, and display.