Scientists launched an AI app that identifies dinosaurs from fossil footprints with about 90% agreement with human experts.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh helped develop the system.
The team trained the AI using 2,000 unlabelled footprint silhouettes.
The system compared prints using eight shape features, including toe spread and heel position.
Professor Steve Brusatte said footprint shapes depend on movement and ground conditions.
Lead author Gregor Hartmann warned many past footprint labels may be incorrect.
The free DinoTracker app lets users upload prints and compare similar examples.
Results support earlier claims that some ancient tracks look birdlike.
Brusatte said the tracks likely came from birdlike meat-eating dinosaurs, not true birds.
Jens Lallensack said soft ground could explain the birdlike shapes.
AI DinoTracker App Identifies Dinosaurs from Ancient Footprints
Andrew Rogers
Andrew Rogers is a freelance journalist based in the USA, with over 10 years of experience covering Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. He earned his degree in Journalism from the University of Florida. Throughout his career, he has contributed to outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and Reuters. Known for his clear reporting and in-depth analysis, Andrew delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on both national and international developments.
Add A Comment
