description Carnotaurus sastrei Overview
Carnotaurus sastrei was a large abelisaurid theropod that lived in what is now Argentina during the Late Cretaceous. Known from a notably complete skeleton described in 1985, it had paired horns above the eyes, a deep skull, powerful hind limbs, and extremely reduced forelimbs. Preserved skin impressions show a surface covered with small scales interspersed with larger conical scales, providing uncommon evidence of theropod skin texture.
insights Ranking position
Carnotaurus sastrei ranks #70 of 249 in the Fossil ranking, behind Herrerasaurus ischigualastensis, ahead of Rhamphorhynchus muensteri.
help Carnotaurus sastrei FAQ
What were the horns of Carnotaurus sastrei used for?
The paired horns above its eyes may have played a role in display, recognition, or combat, but their exact function remains debated. No other well-known large theropod has the same short, thick horn arrangement.
Why are the arms of Carnotaurus so unusual?
Carnotaurus had extremely shortened forelimbs with reduced digits, even smaller in proportion than those of Tyrannosaurus. The arms were unlikely to have played a major role in capturing prey.
How do scientists know what Carnotaurus skin looked like?
The unusually complete Argentine specimen preserved extensive skin impressions from several parts of the body. These show a mosaic of small scales with larger, rounded feature scales rather than evidence of feathers.
Who discovered and named Carnotaurus sastrei?
José Fernando Bonaparte described the species in 1985 from a skeleton found in Argentina. The species name honors Ángel Sastre, the owner of the ranch where the fossil was discovered.
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