Evidence of Combat in Triceratops
Author Information
Author(s): Farke Andrew A., Wolff Ewan D. S., Tanke Darren H.
Primary Institution: Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology
Hypothesis
If ceratopsids with different cranial morphologies used their horns in combat, this should be reflected in the rates of lesion occurrence across the skull.
Conclusion
Triceratops likely used its horns in combat, as indicated by higher rates of lesions on its skull compared to Centrosaurus.
Supporting Evidence
- Triceratops had significantly higher prevalence of lesions on the squamosal bone of the frill than did Centrosaurus.
- Lower pathology rates in Centrosaurus may indicate visual rather than physical use of cranial ornamentation.
- The cranial ornamentation of ceratopsids was not only for visual display but also had a role in physical combat.
Takeaway
Scientists studied the skulls of Triceratops and Centrosaurus to see if they fought each other, and found more injuries on Triceratops, suggesting it used its horns in battles.
Methodology
A G-test of independence was used to compare incidence rates of lesions in Triceratops and Centrosaurus.
Limitations
The study does not claim to infer precise causes for individual pathologies on certain specimens.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Statistical Significance
p=0.002
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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