Carnotaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Ceratosauria · Family: Abelisauridae
A strange-looking dinosaur with a short snout, two bull-like horns, a weak jaw and small eyes. A skin cast discovered in southern Argentina reveals that Carnotaurus in life had a reptilian, pebbly skin. This skin cast is the very best yet found for a theropod.
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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 Carnotaurus mean?
The name Carnotaurus means “Meat-Eating Bull”. It is pronounced kahrn-uh-TAWR-us.
When did Carnotaurus live?
Carnotaurus lived during the Early Cretaceous.
Was Carnotaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Carnotaurus was a carnivore.
How big was Carnotaurus?
Carnotaurus was about 24.6 feet (7.5 meters) long, around 13 feet (4 meters) tall, weighing up to 1,984 lbs (900 kg).
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Abelisauridae family.
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