New Dinosaur Species with Striking “Sail” Unearthed on Isle of Wight
Scientists have identified a previously unknown species of dinosaur, notable for the dramatic sail-like structure running along its back, discovered on the Isle of Wight.The species, named Istiorachis macarthurae, lived around 125 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period. Its name combines “sail spine” with a tribute to Ellen MacArthur, the British sailor who set the world record for the fastest solo non-stop circumnavigation in 2005.
The discovery was made by Dr. Jeremy Lockwood, a retired GP turned PhD researcher at the University of Portsmouth and the Natural History Museum. Lockwood re-examined fossil material long held in collections, recognizing unique features that set the species apart from other iguanodontian dinosaurs found on the island.“No one had really taken a close look at these bones before,” Lockwood explained. “Unlike other specimens, this dinosaur had exceptionally long neural spines suggesting a striking sail along its back. We believe it likely served as a display structure, used to attract mates or intimidate rivals.”
Scientists note that while such sails may also have played a role in thermoregulation or fat storage, the evidence here points more strongly toward visual signaling.
Prof. Susannah Maidment of the Natural History Museum praised the discovery, saying it highlights the importance of re-analyzing museum collections:“Jeremy’s work breathes new life into fossils that have been sitting in storage for years. It shows how much more we still have to learn about Britain’s dinosaurs.”
The Isle of Wight has long been a hotspot for dinosaur finds, with several important iguanodontian species already identified there. The addition of Istiorachis macarthurae further cements the island’s reputation as one of Europe’s richest fossil-hunting grounds.
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