Ceratosaurus (C. nasicornis, 'Horned Lizard') is an extinct genus of theropod dinosaur that lived in the Tithonian of the Late Jurassic, approximately 153 and 148 million years ago, one of the last serpentine-tailed Ceratosaurids.
Ceratosaurus was a bipedal carnivore, quite early in the evolutionary history of theropod dinosaurs. Adult specimens could reach up to six meters in length and weigh close to a ton.
Its main features were a horn over its nostrils and two minor bony crests located over its eyes, and although it may not have been the largest carnivorous dinosaur, it was undoubtedly a spectacular animal.
It is believed that Ceratosaurus lived in forested and swampy areas, near rivers and lakes, where it hunted prey in packs or family groups, such as small dinosaurs and other animals. It may have coexisted with other theropod dinosaurs such as Allosaurus and Stegosaurus, although there is limited evidence to suggest that Ceratosaurus was a more specialized predator that fed on different prey.
In summary, Ceratosaurus was a distinctive carnivorous dinosaur that inhabited North America during the Late Jurassic period. It is believed to have lived in forested and swampy areas near bodies of water, and fed on small dinosaurs and other animals.
Approximate measurements of the Ceratosaurus:
- Scale 1:35 - 175 mm (in two pieces, body and tail)
