Apatosaurus: A Colossal Herbivore from the Jurassic Period

Apatosaurus (21st Century Junior Library: Dinosaurs)

by Lucia Raatma

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5312 KB
Print length	:	24 pages

FREE

Apatosaurus, a genus of sauropod dinosaurs, was one of the largest land animals to ever walk the Earth. These colossal herbivores inhabited North America during the Late Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago. Apatosaurus is renowned for its immense size, distinctive neck and tail, and fascinating feeding behavior.

Size and Appearance

Apatosaurus was a truly massive creature. Adults could reach lengths of up to 85 feet (26 meters) and weigh an astonishing 30 tons (27 metric tons). Its body was supported by four sturdy legs, each as thick as a tree trunk. The front legs were slightly longer than the hind legs, giving Apatosaurus a slightly sloping posture.

The head of Apatosaurus was relatively small compared to its body. It featured a broad, U-shaped snout filled with numerous peg-like teeth. These teeth were not used for chewing, but rather for stripping leaves and twigs from trees and shrubs.

Apatosaurus had an extremely long neck and tail. Its neck contained 15 vertebrae, allowing it to reach high into the canopy to feed. The tail was also very long, with up to 80 vertebrae. It served as a counterbalance to the animal's massive head and neck, and may have also been used for defense.

Feeding Behavior

Apatosaurus was a strict herbivore, feeding primarily on leaves, twigs, and other plant material. Its peg-like teeth were not designed for chewing, but rather for stripping vegetation from trees and shrubs. Apatosaurus had a massive digestive system, including a four-chambered stomach, to process the large amounts of plant material it consumed.

Apatosaurus is believed to have been a social animal, living in herds for protection and to facilitate feeding. They may have migrated seasonally in search of new food sources.

Paleontological Discovery

The first Apatosaurus fossils were discovered in the late 19th century in Colorado. The genus was named by American paleontologist Othniel Charles Marsh in 1877. Marsh initially believed Apatosaurus to be a species of Brontosaurus, another sauropod dinosaur. However, further research revealed that the two genera were distinct.

Numerous Apatosaurus fossils have been found in North America, primarily in the Morrison Formation. These fossils have provided valuable insights into the anatomy, behavior, and evolution of this colossal herbivore.

Cultural Significance

Apatosaurus has become a well-known and iconic dinosaur, featured in numerous books, films, and documentaries. It is often depicted as a gentle giant, peacefully grazing on the lush vegetation of the Jurassic period.

The discovery and study of Apatosaurus has played a significant role in our understanding of sauropods and the broader evolution of dinosaurs. It continues to inspire awe and wonder in people of all ages.

Apatosaurus was a truly remarkable creature, one of the largest and most impressive dinosaurs to ever walk the Earth. Its immense size, distinctive appearance, and fascinating feeding behavior make it a captivating subject of paleontological study and public fascination. As we continue to uncover the secrets of this colossal herbivore, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and grandeur of life that flourished during the Jurassic period.

Apatosaurus (21st Century Junior Library: Dinosaurs)

by Lucia Raatma

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5312 KB
Print length	:	24 pages

FREE