Dilophosaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Ceratosauria · Family: Podokesauridae
Dilophosaurus takes its name from the delicate double crest on its head. This odd-appearing crest may have served asa secondary sexual characteristic, differentiating males from females. The fact that the jaws of Dilophosaurus are not as strong as othertheropods of its size suggests that it may have dined on carrion. Dilophosaurus footprints found in trackways indicate that it traveled in groups.
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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 Dilophosaurus mean?
The name Dilophosaurus means “Two-crested Lizard”. It is pronounced dye-LO-fuh-SAWR-us.
When did Dilophosaurus live?
Dilophosaurus lived during the Early Jurassic.
Was Dilophosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Dilophosaurus was a carnivore.
How big was Dilophosaurus?
Dilophosaurus was about 20 feet (6.1 meters) long, around 8 feet (2.4 meters) tall.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Podokesauridae family.
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