Concavenator
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Carcharodontosauria · Family: Carcharodontosauridae (family not firmly confirmed)
Concavenator, a name meaning "Cuenca hunter," was a carnivorous dinosaur that roamed the landscape of Early Cretaceous Spain. This medium-sized predator measured between 18 and 20 feet in length, making it a formidable hunter of its time. Concavenator belonged to the Carcharodontosauridae family, a group of large theropod carnivores that dominated many Cretaceous ecosystems.
One of the most striking features of Concavenator was a distinctive hump or crest formed by a pair of unusually tall vertebrae positioned in front of its hips. This triangular structure would have created a prominent ridge along its back, though paleontologists continue to debate its exact function—whether it served a display purpose, thermoregulatory role, or something else entirely. The original fossil specimen is noteworthy for its exceptional preservation, including rare skin impressions that provide insight into the texture of this ancient predator's hide.
Some researchers have identified small bumps on Concavenator's forearm that may represent attachment points for feathers or quill-like structures, an interpretation that reflects ongoing discussion within the paleontological community. These features suggest that even large theropod predators may have possessed some form of integumentary covering, though further analysis remains necessary to confirm such assessments definitively.
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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 Concavenator mean?
The name Concavenator means “Cuenca hunter”.
When did Concavenator live?
Concavenator lived during the Early Cretaceous.
Was Concavenator a carnivore or a herbivore?
Concavenator was a carnivore.
How big was Concavenator?
Concavenator was about 18-20 feet (5.5-6 meters) long.
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