DESCRIPTION

Tyrannasorus rex was a species of beetle that lived during the Miocene epoch. It was a small, flightless insect with a distinctive appearance. Its most striking feature was its large, bulbous head, which gave it its name, inspired by the famous dinosaur Tyrannosaurus rex. This unusual head shape was likely an adaptation for feeding on specific types of plant material.

DISCOVERY
 
Tyrannasorus rex was first discovered in the Dominican Republic, preserved in amber. The amber provided a unique snapshot of the beetle's anatomy and allowed scientists to study its features in detail. The discovery of this unique insect has shed light on the diversity of life during the Miocene epoch and the evolution of beetles.

PALEOCECOLOGY

As a ground-dwelling insect, Tyrannasorus rex likely lived in the forest understory. Its bulbous head may have been used to dig or to access food sources that were difficult for other insects to reach. While its exact diet is unknown, it is believed to have been a herbivore or omnivore, feeding on plant matter and possibly small insects.