This large theropod dinosaur, a member of the spinosaurid family, is known for its distinctive, elongated snout and massive claw on its thumb. Fossil discoveries of this creature have provided valuable insights into the diet and habitat of spinosaurids. The name itself translates to “heavy claw,” a direct reference to this prominent anatomical feature.
The significance of this genus lies in its contribution to understanding dinosaur evolution and paleoecology. The fossil record, including stomach contents, suggests a diet heavily reliant on fish, supporting the theory that some dinosaurs were adapted to aquatic or semi-aquatic environments. Its discovery and study have broadened the understanding of dinosaur diversity and adaptation to different ecological niches during the Cretaceous period. The historical find of the type specimen in Surrey, England, was a crucial moment in paleontology, marking the identification of a unique type of theropod.
