Scientists reveal the cause of death of 'Dolly,' a Sauropod that lived over 150 million years ago

In a major breakthrough, scientists revealed the possible reason for the death of a lone giant dinosaur that lived almost 150 million years ago.MOR 7029, popularly known as Dolly, was part of the family of long-necked and plant-eatingdinosaurs. Scientists claimed that Dolly used to live during the Late Jurassic period in the region which is now known as southwest Montana. The study suggests that it was a respiratory infection and must have been caused by a fungus which could have led to coughingand breathing issues.

The study led by Dr Cary Woodruff from the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum suggested that Dolly likely died due to an infection that caused her to exhibit flu-like symptoms.

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In a tweet, the scientist said," NEW PAPER DAY! After A LONG TIME in the works, I want to share with you all the VERY 1ST CASE of an avian-style RESPIRATORY INFECTION in a non-avian DINOSAUR! You heard me right readers – AND IT’S IN A #SAUROPOD"

Referring to symptoms, Woodruff said, "Given the likely symptoms this animal suffered from, holding these infected bones in your hands, you can’t help but feel sorry for Dolly. We’ve all experienced these same symptoms – coughing, trouble breathing, a fever, etc. – and here’s a 150-million-year-old dinosaur that likely felt as miserable as we all do when we’re sick."

Sauropods are generally up to 110 feet long and weigh more than 90 tonnes, but the situation was not the same in Dolly's case. She weighed about 20 tonnes and was only 40 feet long, and bony growth in her vertebra was an indication of a possible infection.

Dolly's infection, a symptomatic of pneumonia, has since then been compared to an illness that is found in both birds and reptiles. It is called aspergillosis and can spread to animals' bones.

(With inputs from agencies)

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