
Overview
Plateosaurus engelhardti was a large, herbivorous dinosaur that lived during the Late Triassic period, approximately 214 to 204 million years ago. It is one of the earliest known dinosaurs and belongs to the group of early sauropodomorphs, which later gave rise to the giant sauropods.
Plateosaurus was a bipedal dinosaur, measuring up to 33 feet (10 meters) in length and weighing around 4 tons. It had a long neck, a small head, and strong hind limbs, making it well-adapted for browsing on vegetation.
Quick Facts
Diet
Herbivore (plants, leaves, and shrubs)
Speed
~10 mph (estimated)
Weight
~4 tons (3,600 kg)
Length
~33 ft (10 m)
Defense
Size and strong limbs for protection
Discovery & Significance
Plateosaurus was first discovered in 1834 by Johann Friedrich Engelhardt in Germany. Its name means “broad lizard,” referring to its robust build. Plateosaurus is one of the best-studied dinosaurs from the Triassic period, with numerous fossils found across Europe.
Plateosaurus played a crucial role in the early understanding of dinosaur evolution. It is considered a transitional form between early bipedal dinosaurs and the later giant sauropods. Its fossils have provided valuable insights into the anatomy and behavior of early dinosaurs.
Physical Characteristics
Plateosaurus had a long neck and a small head with leaf-shaped teeth, ideal for cropping vegetation. Its forelimbs were shorter than its hind limbs, and it had strong, clawed hands that may have been used for grasping or defense. Its tail was long and stiff, providing balance while walking or running.
Plateosaurus could walk on both two and four legs, depending on its needs. Its large size and strong limbs made it well-adapted for browsing on vegetation, and it likely lived in herds for protection against predators.