Alxasaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Therizinosauroidea · Family: Alxasaururidae
This unusual dinosaur is the earliest known Segnosaur. It is characterized by its large arms and claws. It closely resembled Erlikosaurus in structure; one of the more notable anatomical differences being a greater number of teeth possessed by Alxasaurus vs. 31 in Erlikosaurus. While it had a toothlessbeak, these tiny, leaf-shaped teeth were placed further back in the mouth and are usually interpreted as being those of a herbivore.
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Reference background: Natural History Museum, London — Dinosaurs; Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History — Dinosaurs; American Museum of Natural History — Dinosaurs & Fossils. Figures are typical published ranges; taxonomy follows the source era and modern consensus is noted where it differs. See our sources & fact-check policy.
Frequently asked questions
What does Alxasaurus mean?
The name Alxasaurus means “Alxa”. It is pronounced AL-shuh-SAWR-us.
When did Alxasaurus live?
Alxasaurus lived during the Early-Late Cretaceous.
Was Alxasaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Alxasaurus was a herbivore.
How big was Alxasaurus?
Alxasaurus was about 13 feet (4 meters) long, around 5.75 feet (1.75 meters) tall.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Alxasaururidae family.
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