Cetiosauriscus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Sauropodomorpha · Infraorder: Sauropoda · Family: Diplodocidae
Found in England and Switzerland, Cetiosauriscus was originally thought to be closely related to Cetiosaurus but later analysis showed it to be a diplodocid rather than a cetiosaurid. Characteristic of diplodocids, this primitive, four-legged, plant-eater had a long, whip-like tail. As is frequently the case with sauropods, no skull has yet been found. Diplodocids are common in the Late Jurassic in North America and East Africa, but Cetiosauriscus is the only one found in Europe during this time.
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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 Cetiosauriscus mean?
The name Cetiosauriscus means “Whale Lizard-like”. It is pronounced SEET-ee-o-SAWR-iss-kus.
When did Cetiosauriscus live?
Cetiosauriscus lived during the Middle to Late Jurassic.
Was Cetiosauriscus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Cetiosauriscus was a herbivore.
How big was Cetiosauriscus?
Cetiosauriscus was about 50 feet (15.2 meters) long, around 20 feet (6.1 meters) tall, weighing up to 19,850 lbs (9,004 kg).
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Diplodocidae family.
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