Spinosaurus Originated in Europe, Study Finds
New research traces the migration of Spinosaurus into Asia via land bridges created by falling sea levels 140 million years ago.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Geography
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University of Leeds researchers have determined that Spinosaurus originated in Europe before expanding into Asia. The findings clarify the prehistoric migration path of the dinosaur between 140 and 120 million years ago.
Why it matters
This research redefines the early distribution of one of history's largest carnivorous dinosaurs by linking its diversification to specific land bridges. Understanding these migration patterns helps paleontologists map the movement of prehistoric fauna across ancient continents.
The study analyzed fossils spanning Southern England, Portugal, and Spain, which served as the primary diversification points. This data indicates the lineage reached Asia via a land bridge created by a drop in sea levels.
The players
University of Leeds
A research university based in the United Kingdom known for its work in geological sciences and paleontology.
Spinosaurus
A genus of large theropod dinosaur identified by its distinct sail-like structure and semiaquatic behavior.
The details
The team traced the migration of Spinosaurus by examining fossil records across Europe and Asia. A reduction in sea levels opened a land bridge across Eastern Europe, allowing the species to transition from its ancestral range into Asia. This geographic dispersal explains the absence of these dinosaurs in North America, Australia, or Antarctica during this timeframe.
Timeline
140 million years ago: Spinosaurus migration from Europe to Asia began.
120 million years ago: Spinosaurus migration from Europe to Asia concluded.
2001: Spinosaurus appeared in a box-office film.
The Tech Race
This research updates the known geographic distribution of Spinosaurus relative to its popular 2001 film appearance. It establishes a definitive migration timeline that contradicts older assumptions about the dinosaur's restricted ancestral range.
These findings update the scientific record for paleontological enthusiasts and educators mapping prehistoric migrations. This study corrects the historical narrative regarding where this species lived and how it spread across the ancient world.
The takeaway
The study clarifies that Spinosaurus utilized specific land bridges during sea-level drops to reach Asia. Researchers will continue to monitor fossil deposits in Spain and Portugal to confirm if other related species followed similar migratory corridors.
Further reading
For more on how ancient landscapes shaped prehistoric life, explore the Geography section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Yorkshire Evening Post.
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