Plateosaurus engelhardti, a basal sauropodomorph dinosaur that inhabited during the Triassic period, approximately 214 to 204 million years ago. It was one of the first dinosaurs to be discovered and plays a key role in understanding the evolution and diversification of these ancient reptiles.
Plateosaurus engelhardti was characterized by its distinctive appearance. It had a relatively large and stocky body, with strong legs and an elongated neck and tail. Its total length could reach 8 to 10 meters and its weight varied, but it was estimated at around 2 to 4 tons. Despite its size, this dinosaur was bipedal, that is, it walked on its two hind legs, which allowed it to be agile and move efficiently.
One of the notable features of Plateosaurus was its long, flexible neck, which allowed it to reach leaves and high branches to feed. It had a small head with sharp, conical teeth, ideal for shredding fibrous vegetation. Although it ate primarily on plants, some studies suggest that it may have included small animals in its diet as well.
Plateosaurus engelhardti had long, powerful forelimbs, with sickle-shaped claws on tridactyl hands that it probably used to grasp and manipulate vegetation. Its hind legs were also muscular and ended in three-toed feet. Although not as agile as some of the more advanced dinosaurs, its body structure allowed it to move effectively through its environment.
Plateosaurus fossils have been found in various regions of Europe, mainly in what is now Germany and Switzerland. This provides valuable information about their anatomy, behavior, and evolution. It is believed to have lived in terrestrial environments, from plains to forest areas, and to have formed social herds for protection and foraging.
Approximate measurements of the Plateosaurus:
Scale 1:35 - 230mm
Complete base and Plateosaurus in two pieces
