Wuerhosaurus
Order: Ornithischia · Suborder: Thyreophora · Infraorder: Stegosauria · Family: Stegosauridae
Found in China, Wuerhosaurus is the first stegosaur from the Cretaceous Period to be discovered. Like other stegosaurs, it probably had two rows of long, low bony plates down its neck, back, and upper tail. Its tail was probably studded with four spikes. The purpose of the bony plates is unknown. It may be that they served as radiators, dissipatingbody heat during the day.
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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 Wuerhosaurus mean?
The name Wuerhosaurus means “Wuerho Lizard”. It is pronounced WER-oh-SAWR-us.
When did Wuerhosaurus live?
Wuerhosaurus lived during the Early Cretaceous.
Was Wuerhosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Wuerhosaurus was a herbivore.
How big was Wuerhosaurus?
Wuerhosaurus was about 23 feet (7 meters) long, around 9 feet (2.2 meters) tall.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Stegosauridae family.
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