Digraemus

Digraemus is a genus of small predatory theropod dinosaurs described from fossil remains found in the Flaming Sands Basin of Northlands. The genus dates to the Late Cretaceous and is currently known from a partial skeleton that includes a skull fragment, a forelimb, and several tail vertebrae. The type species is Digraemus striatus.

Etymology and naming: The genus name combines Greek roots meaning “two” and “rayed” or “striated,” in reference to two distinct ridges observed on the preserved portion of the skull roof. The species name striatus refers to the longitudinal striations noted on some skeletal elements.

Description: Adults are estimated at about 1.0 to 1.4 meters in length, with a light, agile frame. The skull is elongated and the dentition comprises curved, serrated teeth suited to a carnivorous diet. The forelimbs are relatively short with claws, while the hind limbs are long and powerful, suggesting good cursorial abilities and swift locomotion.

Classification: Phylogenetic analyses place Digraemus within Coelurosauria, with tentative affinities to early troodontids or dromaeosaurids. The fragmentary material yields uncertainty about its precise relationships, and additional fossils are required to resolve its position within small-bodied predatory dinosaurs of its ecosystem.

Discovery and distribution: Remains were recovered during field surveys conducted in 2009–2010 by teams from Northlands University. Digraemus striatus was described in 2011 by researchers Perez and Huang. The holotype specimen is designated DM-2011-01 and is housed in the Northlands Museum of Natural History.

Paleobiology and ecology: Dental and limb morphology indicate a carnivorous lifestyle, likely preying on small vertebrates and scavenging opportunistically. The animal would have inhabited semi-arid environments, coexisting with herbivorous dinosaurs and small aquatic taxa in its region.