Metriacanthosaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Theropoda · Infraorder: Ceratosauria · Family: Megalosauridae (family not firmly confirmed)
Found in southern England, Metriacanthosaurus had vertebraewith spines up to 10 inches (25.4 cm) long, perhaps supporting a skin sail. It has been speculated that the purpose of such skin sails was to aid in regulating body temperature.
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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 Metriacanthosaurus mean?
The name Metriacanthosaurus means “Moderately-Spined Lizard”. It is pronounced met-rih-ah-KANTH-uh-SAWR-us.
When did Metriacanthosaurus live?
Metriacanthosaurus lived during the Late Jurassic.
Was Metriacanthosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Metriacanthosaurus was a carnivore.
How big was Metriacanthosaurus?
Metriacanthosaurus was about 26 feet (7.9 meters) long, around 12 feet (3.7 meters) tall.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Megalosauridae family.
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