Amargasaurus
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Only known from one fossil discovered in 1984, Amargasaurus soon became very recognizable for the huge paired spikes on its neck. All its neural spines on its large, but the ones on its neck are bifurcated and dramatically expanded. The top 2/3rds are covered in keratin, and the lower third is covered b y the skin of the neck. The spikes may have been used for visaul display, defense against predators, or sound production by clattering. Aside from the neck spines, Amargasaurus is a pretty average sauropod. Dicraeosaurids such as Amargasaurus are unusually small sauropods with relatively short necks. The lower spines behind the neck form a hump going down the back and tail. Its head normally orients downwards at a 65-degree angle, which makes sense for a low-browsing herbivore. Our Amargasaurus are the first dinosaurs you will see upon entering the park. They represent sauropodomorphs in the "What is a Dinosaur?" mini-exhibit. |
Scientific name Location Time Length Diet |