Erlikosaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Family: Therizinosauridae
An unusual kind of dinosaur that lived in Mongolia, its name is derived from the Lama ist deity Erlik. It had a long, slender, toothless beak. However, further back in its mouth were rows of tiny leaf-shaped teeth usually associated with herbivores likeLesothosaurus and the prosauropods. Recent analysis indicates that they are theropods but unlike most theropods, they have four big toes on each foot instead of the typical three.
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 Erlikosaurus mean?
The name Erlikosaurus means “Erlik's Lizard”. It is pronounced er-LIK-uh-SAWR-us.
Was Erlikosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Erlikosaurus was a herbivore.
How big was Erlikosaurus?
Erlikosaurus was about 16 feet (4.9 meters) long, around 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Therizinosauridae family.
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