Dromiceiomimus
Dromiceiomimus was a genus of ornithomimid theropod dinosaur that lived in Alberta, Canada, during the Late Cretaceous period. While some paleontologists consider it a distinct genus, others classify its type species, D. brevitertius, as a synonym of Ornithomimus edmontonicus. It was a relatively small dinosaur, estimated to weigh around 135 kilograms.
Key Facts
- ›Lived in Alberta, Canada, during the Late Cretaceous period.
- ›Belongs to the ornithomimid theropod group.
- ›Estimated to weigh approximately 135 kilograms (298 lb).
- ›The genus name "Dromiceiomimus" means "emu MIMIC".
- ›Its validity as a distinct genus from Ornithomimus has been debated among paleontologists.
Small Ornithomimid Theropod, Estimated Weight of 135 Kilograms
Ornithomimus Edmontonicus, Struthiomimus, Ornithomimus Samueli
Canada
About Dromiceiomimus
Dromiceiomimus is a genus of ornithomimid theropod dinosaur, known from fossils discovered in Alberta, Canada. This dinosaur lived during the Late Cretaceous period, specifically the early Maastrichtian epoch. The genus name, "Dromiceiomimus," translates to "emu mimic," reflecting its resemblance to modern emus.
Taxonomy and Validity
The type species, Dromiceiomimus brevitertius, was initially described by William Parks in 1926 as a species of Struthiomimus. Later, Dale Russell established the new genus Dromiceiomimus for this species. Russell also proposed a second species, Dromiceiomimus samueli. However, the distinctiveness of Dromiceiomimus from Ornithomimus has been a subject of debate among paleontologists. Some researchers, including Makovicky et al., have argued that the differences are insufficient to warrant a separate genus and have synonymized Dromiceiomimus with Ornithomimus edmontonicus. Conversely, other authors, such as Longrich and later McDonald and Currie, have maintained that Dromiceiomimus represents a valid genus, citing differences in limb proportions and thighbone/shinbone ratios from specimens attributed to Ornithomimus.
Physical Characteristics and Lifestyle
Dromiceiomimus was a relatively small ornithomimid, with estimates suggesting an average weight of approximately 135 kilograms (298 lb). As an ornithomimid, it would have been adapted for bipedal locomotion, likely possessing adaptations for speed. The diet of Dromiceiomimus is inferred from its classification within the ornithomimid group, which are generally considered omnivores or herbivores, though specific dietary evidence for this genus is not detailed in available records.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Dromiceiomimus mean?
The name Dromiceiomimus translates to "emu mimic." This name was chosen by Dale Russell, referencing the old generic name for the emu, Dromiceius.
When did Dromiceiomimus live?
Dromiceiomimus lived during the Late Cretaceous period, specifically in the early Maastrichtian epoch.
Where were Dromiceiomimus fossils found?
Fossils of Dromiceiomimus were discovered in Alberta, Canada, specifically from the Horseshoe Canyon Formation.
What was the approximate weight of Dromiceiomimus?
Dromiceiomimus was a small ornithomimid, estimated to weigh about 135 kilograms (298 lb).
Is Dromiceiomimus considered a valid dinosaur genus?
The validity of Dromiceiomimus as a distinct genus from Ornithomimus has been a subject of debate. Some researchers consider it valid, while others synonymize its species with Ornithomimus edmontonicus.
Related Dinosaur species
Albertosaurus
Albertosaurus is a genus of large tyrannosaurid dinosaur that lived in northwestern North America during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 71 million years ago. Known for its bipedal predatory nature, it was significantly smaller than its famous relative, Tyrannosaurus rex. Extensive fossil discoveries, particularly from the Dry Island bone bed in Alberta, Canada, have provided significant insights into its anatomy, growth, and behavior.
Atrociraptor
Atrociraptor was a small, predatory dromaeosaurid dinosaur that lived in what is now Alberta, Canada, during the Late Cretaceous period. Known for its deep snout and distinctively inclined teeth, it is believed to have been adapted for attacking larger prey compared to its relatives. Its fossils, primarily skull fragments and isolated teeth, were discovered in the Horseshoe Canyon Formation.
Daspletosaurus
Daspletosaurus, meaning "frightful lizard," was a genus of tyrannosaurid dinosaur that roamed the North American continent of Laramidia during the Late Cretaceous Period. This large bipedal predator was an apex hunter, likely preying on large herbivores and engaging in social behaviors such as pack hunting or mobbing carcasses. Its massive skull, powerful jaws, and sharp teeth made it a formidable carnivore.