Zizhongosaurus
Order: Saurischia · Suborder: Sauropodomorpha · Infraorder: Sauropoda · Family: Vulcanodontidae
The discovery in China of Zizhongosaurus, a small, primitive sauropod, established the presence of sauropods in China during the Early Jurassic Period. Their presence early in the history of Sauropoda indicates that Chinese sauropodswere indigenous to the area. Zizhongosaurus may have resembledBarapasaurus, which existed in India at about the same time.
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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 Zizhongosaurus mean?
The name Zizhongosaurus means “Zizhong Lizard”. It is pronounced zee-ZONG-guh-SAWR-us.
When did Zizhongosaurus live?
Zizhongosaurus lived during the Early Jurassic.
Was Zizhongosaurus a carnivore or a herbivore?
Zizhongosaurus was a herbivore.
How big was Zizhongosaurus?
Zizhongosaurus was about 30 feet (9.1 meters) long, around 11 feet (3.4 meters) tall.
Related dinosaurs
Other dinosaurs from the Vulcanodontidae family.
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