Dicraeosaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Sauropodomorpha · Infraorder: Sauropoda · Family: Diplodocidae
Discovered in Tanzania, Dicraeosaurus takes its name from the tall, forked spines on its vertebrae. These vertebrae would have given Dicraeosaurus the appearance of greater height, which might have discouraged predators. Its tail was long and thin, and it may have been used like a whip lash against predators.
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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 Dicraeosaurus mean?
The name Dicraeosaurus means “Two-Forked Lizard”. It is pronounced dye-CRAY-uh-SAWR-us.
When did Dicraeosaurus live?
Dicraeosaurus lived during the Late Jurassic.
Was Dicraeosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Dicraeosaurus was a herbivore.
How big was Dicraeosaurus?
Dicraeosaurus was about 45 feet (13.2 meters) long, around 12 feet (3.7 meters) tall, weighing up to 11,900 lbs (5,400 kg).
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Diplodocidae family.
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