Amargasaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Sauropodomorpha · Infraorder: Sauropoda · Family: Diplodocidae
Discovered in Argentina, Amargasaurus is known from fragmentaryremains. It is similar to the diplodocid family of dinosaurs. It is distinguished from all other sauropods by the presence of elongated spines running from its neck to its tail. The spines are paired, and it may be that they supported not one but two sails. Amargasaurus' sail or sails would have increased its body surface and allowed it to dissipate excess body heat.
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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 Amargasaurus mean?
The name Amargasaurus means “(La) Amarga (Argentina) Lizard”. It is pronounced ah-MAR-guh-SAWR-us.
When did Amargasaurus live?
Amargasaurus lived during the Late Jurassic.
Was Amargasaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Amargasaurus was a herbivore.
How big was Amargasaurus?
Amargasaurus was about 33 feet (10 meters) long.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Diplodocidae family.
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