Ankylosaurids facts for kids
Quick facts for kids AnkylosauridsTemporal range: 160–66 mya
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Skeleton of Scolosaurus thronus, Senckenberg Museum | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Superorder: | |
| Order: | |
| Suborder: | |
| Infraorder: | |
| Family: |
†Ankylosauridae
Brown, 1908
|
The Ankylosauridae (say: an-KY-loh-SAWR-ih-dee) are a group of armoured dinosaurs. They first appeared about 125 million years ago. These dinosaurs lived until about 65 million years ago, when a big event caused many dinosaurs to become extinct.
Ankylosaurids are part of a larger group called Ankylosauria. Another group, the Nodosauridae, are like their close cousins.
Scientists have found Ankylosaurid fossils in western North America, Europe, and East Asia. Finding complete skeletons is rare. Most of what we know comes from small pieces and parts of their tough armour.
Contents
What are Ankylosaurids?
Ankylosaurids were plant-eating dinosaurs. They are famous for their strong body armour. This armour was made of bony plates embedded in their skin. It protected them from predators. Many Ankylosaurids also had a large, bony club at the end of their tail. They could swing this tail club to defend themselves.
Key Features of Ankylosaurids
Ankylosaurids had several unique features:
- Heavy Armour: Their bodies were covered in thick, bony plates called osteoderms. These acted like a natural suit of armour.
- Tail Club: Many Ankylosaurids had a large, bony club at the end of their tail. This was a powerful weapon.
- Low to the Ground: They had a wide, flat body shape. This made them look very sturdy and strong.
- Small Teeth: Their teeth were small and leaf-shaped. This shows they ate plants.
Where Did They Live?
Ankylosaurids lived in different parts of the world. Their fossils have been found across continents. This suggests they were quite widespread. They lived in various environments, from forests to open plains.
Famous Ankylosaurids
Some well-known Ankylosaurids include:
- Ankylosaurus: This is one of the most famous. It was a very large and heavily armoured dinosaur.
- Euoplocephalus: Another well-known Ankylosaurid. It had a wide, flat skull and a strong tail club.
- Gastonia: Known for its many spikes and bony plates.
Images for kids
-
Dyoplosaurus tail reconstruction, showing terms used for parts of ankylosaurid tails
-
Map of ankylosaurine distribution across North America in the Late Cretaceous
-
Diagram showing ankylosaurid skull anatomy
See also
In Spanish: Anquilosáuridos para niños
