Historic Discovery on Port Island
Hong Kong has unearthed a prehistoric marvel: dinosaur fossils have been discovered on Port Island, marking the first evidence of dinosaur life in the region. These fossils were found by Hong Kong's Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department in March and have since been identified as originating from the Cretaceous period, an era spanning roughly 145 to 66 million years ago. The Hong Kong government announced this remarkable find on Wednesday.
Protected and Scientifically Significant Site
Port Island, an isolated rocky isle in northeastern Hong Kong waters, has been designated as a protected area since 1979, recognized for its scientific significance within Hong Kong’s UNESCO Global Geopark. Secretary for Development, Bernadette Linn, emphasized the importance of this discovery for the region’s paleontological research and for enhancing Hong Kong’s understanding of its ancient ecosystem.
Scientific Analysis of the Ancient Fossil Fragments
The fossil fragments, attributed to a “large, mature dinosaur,” were closely analyzed by experts from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The institute’s team meticulously removed the surrounding rock to study the bones in greater detail. Michael Pittman, a life sciences professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, noted that erosion could have easily destroyed the fossil if it hadn’t been partially exposed on the island’s surface.
Hong Kong’s First Dinosaur Discovery and Regional Comparisons
“This is a landmark discovery for Hong Kong,” said Pittman. "While other remnants from the 'dinosaur era' in Hong Kong include plant and fish fossils, this is our first physical link to dinosaur life in the area."
Dinosaur Remains in Southern China
Southern China is typically known for preserved dinosaur eggs rather than skeletal remains, making the revelation of dinosaur bones a rarity. However, researchers in the southwestern province of Yunnan have made significant finds of dinosaur fossils in recent years. Additionally, earlier this year, a team of paleontologists discovered a new dinosaur species, Gandititan cavocaudatus, dating back 90 million years, in Jiangxi province.
Public Exhibition and Continuing Excavations
Hong Kong’s Heritage Discovery Centre will showcase the Port Island fossils in a public exhibit opening Friday. The island, along with portions of the country park, will remain temporarily closed to visitors as scientists continue their excavation efforts. Experts suggest that further studies may reveal additional fossils, potentially leading to extended closures for ongoing examination.
Looking Ahead: Potential for Further Discoveries
If Port Island’s findings yield more intact skeletal remains, ongoing summer excavations may continue over the coming years, adding layers to Hong Kong’s complex geological and paleontological legacy. For more details, stay updated with us at NexNews Network.