Dicraeosaurus hansemanni is a sauropod dinosaur that lived during the Jurassic period, specifically in the Middle Jurassic, approximately 161 million years ago. This dinosaur is known for being one of the representatives of the sauropods, a group of herbivorous dinosaurs characterized by their large size, massive bodies and long necks.
The name "Dicraeosaurus" comes from the Greek, where "dicraeo" means "double beam" and "sauros" means "lizard", in reference to the double spines found on some of its vertebrae. These spines were a distinctive feature of its back, setting it apart from other sauropods.
The main characteristics of Dicraeosaurus hansemanni include a large body, sturdy hoofed legs, a long neck, and a relatively small head compared to its body size. Its total length is estimated between 14-15 meters, making it a medium-sized sauropod compared to other members of its group.
Dicraeosaurus is believed to have been a herbivore that fed primarily on low-growing plants such as ferns and conifers. Its long neck allowed it to reach higher vegetation, which gave it an advantage in searching for food in its environment.
Fossils of Dicraeosaurus hansemanni have been found in several locations in Africa, particularly in present-day Tanzania and other neighboring countries.
Approximate measurements of the Dicraeosaurus:
- Scale 1:57
- Length 243mm
- Height 67mm
- Snout-tail length 337 mm
- Scale 1:35
- Length 395mm
- Height 108mm
- Snout-tail length 418 mm
