Giganotosaurus (Large Southern Lizard)

Basic facts

  • 43 feet (13m) length

  • Late Cretaceous

  • Argentina

  • Carnivore

Giganotosaurus (Giganotosaurus carolinii) belongs to the group of theropod dinosaurs, known for their bipedal stance and carnivorous nature. It lived approximately 98 to 97 million years ago in what is now Argentina. The first fossils of Giganotosaurus were discovered in 1993, revealing a remarkable predator that rivaled the size of the famous Tyrannosaurus rex.

Giganotosaurus was one of the largest theropod dinosaurs, reaching an estimated length of around 12 to 13 meters and weighing up to 8 to 10 tons. It possessed a strong build with powerful hind limbs, enabling it to move with agility despite its immense size. Its skull was long and narrow, armed with sharp, serrated teeth that could inflict devastating bites. Giganotosaurus also had a long and muscular tail, which provided balance and stability during movement.

Multiple Giganotosaurus skeletons have been discovered in the same area, suggesting that this dinosaur may have roamed in packs or herds. Giganotosaurus lived alongside a number of giant sauropods. Some of these sauropods had bony plates on their backs, which may had formed a defence from attacks coming from above. Only one theropod was large enough from that region - Giganotosaurus.