Were there two forms of Stegosaurus?

TL;DR

This paper explores the existence of two mirror-image forms of Stegosaurus due to exterior chirality, raising questions about museum exhibits and the function of its plates, supported by modern animal examples.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of exterior chirality in Stegosaurus and provides preliminary evidence that both mirror-image forms existed, offering new perspectives on its morphology and function.

Findings

Both mirror-image forms of Stegosaurus likely existed.

Exterior chirality in Stegosaurus raises questions about exhibit authenticity.

Modern animals exhibit similar exterior chirality, informing interpretations.

Abstract

We recognise that Stegosaurus exhibited exterior chirality and could, therefore, have assumed either of two distinct, mirror-image forms. Our preliminary investigations suggest that both existed. Stegosaurus's exterior chirality raises new questions such as the validity of well-known exhibits whilst offering new insights into long-standing questions such as the function of the plates. We inform our discussions throughout with examples of modern-day animals that exhibit exterior chirality.