#480 – Dave Hone: T-Rex, Dinosaurs, Extinction, Evolution, and Jurassic Park
Lex Fridman Podcast
Sep 04
#480 – Dave Hone: T-Rex, Dinosaurs, Extinction, Evolution, and Jurassic Park
#480 – Dave Hone: T-Rex, Dinosaurs, Extinction, Evolution, and Jurassic Park
Lex Fridman Podcast
Sep 04
In this extensive conversation, paleontologist Dave Hone delves into the fascinating world of dinosaurs, exploring their biology, behavior, and evolution. From the physical prowess of the T-Rex to the myths surrounding dragons and the future of paleontology, the discussion blends scientific insight with popular culture.
The conversation covers a wide range of topics in paleontology, beginning with the biomechanics and hunting behavior of T-Rex, including its speed, bite force, and likely prey. The discussion moves into fossil discovery, excavation techniques, and the rising commercial value of dinosaur fossils, exemplified by multimillion-dollar sales. Evolutionary topics include sexual selection, the origins of feathers, and the idea that birds are living dinosaurs. The podcast also addresses misconceptions from popular media like Jurassic Park, the intelligence and possible cannibalism of T-Rex, and the asteroid-driven extinction event that reshaped life on Earth. Additionally, the speakers explore how myths like dragons may have originated from fossil finds, and they consider the future of paleontological research, emphasizing the importance of continued discovery and technological advancement.
00:24
00:24
Lindy enables building and deploying AI agents with a user-friendly interface
26:32
26:32
T-Rex's large eyes suggest strong visual acuity, possibly even nocturnal hunting.
41:26
41:26
Juvenile triceratops could weigh a ton but were not very fast targets for T-Rex.
1:02:48
1:02:48
Borealopelta markmitchelli fossil preserved with skin, keratin sheaths, and stomach contents
1:04:38
1:04:38
Stan the T-Rex sold for $31 million, highlighting the commercial value of fossils.
1:17:49
1:17:49
T-Rex had a more robust skull with greater bone density compared to Giganotosaurus, supporting its powerful bite.
1:52:33
1:52:33
Sparse data makes it hard to confirm pack hunting in dinosaurs
1:57:20
1:57:20
Medullary bone can indicate a female dinosaur, but it's rare and not definitive in most specimens.
2:21:18
2:21:18
Spinosaurus had conical teeth, a sail on its back, and weak swimming evidence
2:26:06
2:26:06
Pteranodons picking up people in films is unnecessarily inaccurate.
2:39:00
2:39:00
T-Rex neuron count estimates revised from 3 billion to 250 million - 1.7 billion
2:43:34
2:43:34
T-Rex bones with tooth marks indicate rare cannibalistic behavior, possibly for feeding or dominance.
3:00:54
3:00:54
Troodon, a highly intelligent dinosaur, sparks speculation about advanced dinosaur evolution
3:17:22
3:17:22
Tiktaalik represents a key evolutionary transition from water to land.
3:25:24
3:25:24
Feathers likely evolved for insulation and sexual display in dinosaurs
3:33:23
3:33:23
Protoceratops offers unique population data from embryos to adults.
