Dhaka, Feb. 23 -- Scientists in China have discovered a juvenile dinosaur species covered in hollow, porcupine-like spikes, believed to have been used for defense and possibly temperature regulation, according to a study reported by Newsweek.

The dinosaur, named Haolong dongi, lived around 125 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period. The fossil, found near Xiawujiazi village in Liaoning Province, is exceptionally well-preserved, allowing researchers to study individual cells and the structure of the spikes using X-ray scans and high-resolution microscopy.

The spikes were part of the dinosaur's skin rather than its bones, and may also have served sensory functions, helping it detect environmental changes. H. dongi belongs to...