Barosaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Sauropodomorpha · Infraorder: Sauropoda · Family: Diplodocidae
Barosaurus is a relatively rare sauropod. The first dinosaur to be found in the Black Hills of South Dakota, its remains have also been found in East Africa suggesting the connection of the modern African and North American continents during Late Jurassic times. The neck of Barosauruswas 30 feet long, longer than its closest relative, the whip-tailed giant Diplodocus but its tail was shorter and its hind limbs stockier. Gastroliths were discovered among its the bones, indicating that at least some dinosaurs swallowed stones to grind the food they consumed.
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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 Barosaurus mean?
The name Barosaurus means “Heavy Lizard”. It is pronounced BARE-uh-SAWR-us.
When did Barosaurus live?
Barosaurus lived during the Late Jurassic.
Was Barosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Barosaurus was a herbivore.
How big was Barosaurus?
Barosaurus was about 79 feet (24.1 meters) long, around 40 feet (12.2 meters) tall, weighing up to 50,000 pounds (22,680 kg).
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Diplodocidae family.
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