Acheroraptor skull

3D Model

This is perhaps the first scientifically-accurate 3D reconstruction of the skull of the Lancian dromaeosaurid, Acheroraptor temertyorum. Originally placed as a velociraptorine in its description publication by Evans et al. (2013), a more recent analysis placed it within Sauronitholestinae (Powers et al. (2021)). Using Fig. 20 in this most recent publication and other more complete dromaeosaurids as references, I digitally sculpted (and 3D printed) my amateur interpretation.

My artwork features apicobasal ridges on the teeth (noted as a unique character in its maxillary dentition), “Zapsalis”-morph premaxillary teeth (as found in Sauronitholestes, Currrie & Evans (2020)), and other details like foramina on the appropriate skull elements. I also subtley hinted at a tooth replacement pattern which gives alternating tooth lengths (noted in Evans et al. 2013). The result I believe is a plausible reconstruction of this geologically-youngest of dromaeosaurids.