Triceratops relatives found in Europe millions of years ago

Scientists report that horned ceratopsian dinosaurs related to Triceratops lived in Europe millions of years ago, based on more complete Ajkaceratops skull fossils; the research also says some species once linked to Iguanodon are now seen as early ceratopsians.

Scientists report that horned, plant-eating dinosaurs related to Triceratops lived in Europe millions of years ago. This challenges the earlier view that ceratopsians were found only in Asia and North America. Researchers reached these conclusions after examining more complete skull fossils of Ajkaceratops. The research also reports that some species previously thought to be relatives of Iguanodon are now identified as early ceratopsians. Key points: - Scientists report ceratopsian (horned, plant-eating) dinosaurs lived in Europe millions of years ago. - New, more complete skull fossils of Ajkaceratops prompted the reevaluation. - The study indicates some species formerly classed with Iguanodon are considered early ceratopsians. - Earlier views held ceratopsians were restricted to Asia and North America. Summary: The research expands the known geographic range attributed to ceratopsians and prompts a reevaluation of some early dinosaur classifications. Undetermined at this time.