Datanglong
Carnivore·Early Cretaceous·Guangxi, China·Bipedal
Datanglong is an extinct genus of large predatory theropod dinosaur from China, living during the Early Cretaceous period. Its uncertain taxonomic placement has led to various interpretations, with some studies suggesting it is a basal coelurosaur, potentially a large megaraptoran, while others place it as an indeterminate carcharodontosaurid.
Key Facts
- ›Datanglong lived during the Early Cretaceous period (Barremian-Albian stages).
- ›Fossils were discovered in the Xinlong Formation in Guangxi, China.
- ›It was a large theropod, estimated to be around 8 to 9 meters in length.
- ›Key distinguishing features include specific characteristics of its vertebrae and ilium.
- ›Its phylogenetic placement has been debated, with evidence supporting both Coelurosauria and Carcharodontosauria.
- ›The holotype specimen consists of vertebrae and hip bones.
- Large predatory theropod
- Estimated length of 8 to 9 meters
- Distinguishing features in vertebrae and ilium, including pneumatic cavities and specific ridge formations
Carcharodontosauria, Coelurosauria, Megaraptora
Asia
About Datanglong
Datanglong is an extinct genus of theropod dinosaur that roamed the Earth during the Early Cretaceous period. Its fossils were discovered in the Xinlong Formation of Guangxi, China. The genus name, Datanglong, is derived from the Datang basin and the Chinese word for 'dragon,' while the species name, guangxiensis, honors the province where it was found. Datanglong is classified as a large predatory theropod, with estimates suggesting a length of approximately 8 to 9 meters (26 to 30 feet).
Discovery and Description
The remains of Datanglong were first unearthed in 2011. The holotype specimen, GMG 00001, comprises a series of vertebrae and hip bones. These fossils provide insights into its anatomy, including specific characteristics of the last dorsal vertebra, sacral vertebrae, and the ilium. Distinguishing features noted by its describers involve pneumatic cavities within the vertebrae and ilium, as well as distinctive ridge formations and joint connections.
Taxonomic Uncertainty
Datanglong's precise position within the dinosaur family tree has been a subject of scientific debate. Initial analyses placed it within the Carcharodontosauria. However, subsequent research, utilizing more comprehensive cladistic analyses, suggested it might be a basal coelurosaur, and potentially a large member of the Megaraptora. More recent studies have continued to explore these possibilities, with some recovering it as a basal coelurosaur and megaraptoran, while others consistently identify it as an indeterminate carcharodontosaurid. This ongoing discussion highlights the complexities of theropod phylogeny and the importance of new fossil discoveries and analytical methods.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Datanglong live?
Datanglong lived during the Early Cretaceous period, specifically within the Barremian to Albian stages.
Where were Datanglong fossils found?
Fossils of Datanglong were discovered in the Xinlong Formation, located in Guangxi, China.
How large was Datanglong?
Datanglong was a large predatory theropod, with estimated lengths ranging from 8 to 9 meters (approximately 26 to 30 feet).
What is known about Datanglong's skeleton?
The known fossil material includes vertebrae and hip bones. Specific details about the last dorsal vertebra, sacrum, ilium, pubic bone, and ischium have been described.
What group of dinosaurs does Datanglong belong to?
The exact taxonomic placement of Datanglong is uncertain. Some analyses suggest it is a basal coelurosaur or a megaraptoran, while others consider it an indeterminate carcharodontosaurid.
What does the name Datanglong mean?
The genus name 'Datanglong' combines a reference to the Datang basin with the Chinese word 'long,' meaning 'dragon.' The specific name 'guangxiensis' refers to the province of Guangxi where it was found.
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