Basic Tyrannosaur Info
The family tyrannosauridae contains a
large number of genra including Albertasaurus, Gorgosaurus, Alioramus,
Aublysodon, Daspletosaurus, Deinodon (possibly a Gorgosaurus),
Nanotyrannus, Tarbosaurus (both Nanotyrannus and Tarbosaurus
may actually be Tyrannosaurus), and most notably,
Tyrannosaurus. They are known for large, muscular jaws, tiny arms,
bipedalism, and robust teeth. The teeth were typically "D" shaped, though their
robustness varied. They were all formidable carnivores, though there is
speculation as to whether they were active hunters or scavengers. The
truth usually lies in the in-between. Like other predators, both modern
and prehistoric, evidence shows that tyrannosaurs would behave agressively
toward each other, often inflicting severe
damage.
Albertasaurus
Albertasaurus was a North American
tyrannosaur that lived during the late Cretaceous, about 70 million years
ago. Obviously, it was first discovered in Alberta, Canada. It could
grow to over 30 feet long. Gorgosaurus is often considered a species of
Albertasaurus, as opposed to being its own genus.
Daspletosaurus
Daspletosaurus was another North American tyrannosaur that
lived in the late Cretaceous, about 75 million years ago. Its arms were a
bit longer than in other tyrannosaurs. Daspletosaurus could grow to
about 30 feet long and is known for the ridges or crests above its
eyes.
Nanotyrannus
Nanotyrannus is a fascinating
"genus". It was a rather slender and small tyrannosaur. Given the
nature of its size and build, several paleontologists have argued that it is not
a seperate genus, but is, rather, a juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex. The
discovery of a juvenile Tyrannosaurus named Jane has given more evidence
that Nanotyrannus is indeed Tyrannosaurus.
Tarbosaurus
Tarbosaurus was an Asian genus
living about 70 million years ago. Its similarity to the North American
Tyrannosaurus rex, has convinced many paleontologists that
Tarbosaurus is actually a species of Tyrannosaurus, giving it the
new name, Tyrannosaurus bataar.
Tyrannosaurus
Tyrannosaurus roamed west North America during the
end of the Cretaceous, about 67 million years ago. The largest "complete"
Tyrannosaurus ever found, named Sue, is 42 feet long and just over 13
feet tall at the hips. Despite Sue's massive size, remains have since been
found that suggest a 10% larger animal. Being one of the first massive
carnivores to be discovered has earned Tyrannosaurus a place as the most
famous dinosaur of all time.





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