Overview
Tarbosaurus bataar was a large, carnivorous theropod dinosaur that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 70 million years ago. It is closely related to Tyrannosaurus rex and is often considered the Asian counterpart to this iconic North American predator.
Tarbosaurus was a massive predator, measuring up to 40 feet (12 meters) in length and weighing around 5 tons. It had powerful jaws, sharp teeth, and strong hind limbs, making it one of the apex predators of its time.
Quick Facts
Diet
Carnivore (large herbivorous dinosaurs)
Speed
~20 mph (estimated)
Weight
~5 tons (4,500 kg)
Length
~40 ft (12 m)
Bite Force
~8,000 psi (estimated)
Discovery & Significance
Tarbosaurus was first discovered in the 1940s in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia. Its name means “alarming lizard,” reflecting its fearsome nature. Fossils of Tarbosaurus have provided valuable insights into the evolution and behavior of tyrannosaurids.
Unlike its North American relative, T. rex, Tarbosaurus had a slightly narrower skull and smaller arms. However, it shared many similarities, including its role as a top predator in its ecosystem. Tarbosaurus likely preyed on large herbivores like Saurolophus and Nemegtosaurus.
Physical Characteristics
Tarbosaurus had a massive skull equipped with dozens of sharp, serrated teeth, perfect for tearing through flesh. Its strong hind limbs allowed it to move quickly despite its size, and its stiff tail provided balance while running.
While its arms were small, they were muscular and may have been used for grasping prey or stabilizing during feeding. Tarbosaurus also had excellent binocular vision, which would have helped it accurately target and ambush prey.
