The Fosterovenator, a remarkable dinosaur from the Late Jurassic period, continues to intrigue scientists and paleontology enthusiasts alike. Identified as a carnivorous theropod, this genus enriches our understanding of dinosaur diversity during a time when the gigantic reptiles ruled the Earth.
Standing out among theropod dinosaurs, Fosterovenator’s discovery and subsequent classification shed light on the evolutionary pathways of predatory dinosaurs. Through examining its anatomy, paleontologists have been able to piece together the lifestyle and habitats that would have been familiar to these ancient creatures.
Key Takeaways
- Fosterovenator adds to the diversity of known theropod dinosaurs from the Late Jurassic.
- Its discovery provides insight into the evolution and classification of predatory dinosaurs.
- Analysis of Fosterovenator’s anatomical features helps reconstruct its way of life.
Discovery and Naming
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUU3Z26_q7Q&embed=true
The discovery of Fosterovenator sheds light on the diversity of theropods in the Late Jurassic period, specifically highlighting specimens from the Morrison Formation in Wyoming.
Initial Discovery
The Fosterovenator remains were initially discovered at Como Bluff, Wyoming, by geologist Arthur Lakes in 1879.
Holotype and Paratype
In 2014, Peter J. Makovicky and Daniel J. Chure identified a specific theropod tibia with an articulated astragalus as the holotype (YPM VP 058267A, B, and C). They also recognized another specimen, a fibula of a larger individual, as the paratype (YPM VP 058267D).
Etymology
The genus name, Fosterovenator churei, honors paleontologist John Russell Foster for his contributions to the study of the Morrison Formation, with the species name acknowledging Daniel J. Chure. The name is derived from Latin, meaning “Foster’s hunter.”
Classification and Anatomy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhtJcLH6-nA&embed=true
Fosterovenator shines a light on the complex lineage of theropods, specifically within the Ceratosauria clade, showcasing unique anatomical features that set it apart.
Taxonomic Classification
Fosterovenator is a genus within the Theropoda suborder, which falls under the larger category of Saurischia, one of the two primary divisions of Dinosauria. Within the Theropoda, Fosterovenator belongs to the infraorder Ceratosauria, a group characterized by their primitive, yet diverse, traits compared to more derived theropods. It is further placed in the family Ceratosauridae, grouping it with similarly built carnivorous dinosaurs. This dinosaur’s taxonomic journey extends from the animal kingdom (Animalia), through the phylum of Chordates (Chordata), to the class Reptilia, acknowledging its reptilian heritage. Lastly, it belongs to the domain Eukaryota due to its cells containing a nucleus and organelles.
Physical Characteristics
Fosterovenator’s skeletal system is best understood from fossils, notably its tibia and fibula. The tibia—recovered with an articulated astragalus—provides valuable insights into the dinosaur’s locomotion and stance. Its fibula was described in another specimen, indicating size variation within the species. These leg bones suggest it was well-equipped for an active predatory lifestyle. No complete skeletons of Fosterovenator have been found, but the existing fossils imply they were agile ceratosaurids, potentially on the small side for their family.
Keywords:
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Fosterovenator: A genus of ceratosaur dinosaur.
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Jurassic Period: They lived during the Late Jurassic era.
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Morrison Formation: Their fossils were found in this geological formation in Wyoming.
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Ceratosaur: Fosterovenator belonged to this group of predatory dinosaurs.
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Holotype YPM VP 058267A, B, and C: The main fossil specimen includes a tibia with an articulated astragalus.
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Carnivorous Lifestyle: It is suggested that they were meat-eaters.
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Wyoming: This is where their remains were discovered.
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Paleontology: The field of science that studies prehistoric life including dinosaurs like Fosterovenator.
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Basal Abelisauroids: They are considered to be early members or relatives within this subgroup.
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Specimen YPM VP 058267D: An additional specimen that consists of a fibula of an individual larger than the holotype.
For those interested in the science of ancient life, learning about species such as Fosterovenator provides valuable insight into the diversity of dinosaur life and paleo-ecosystems from millions of years ago. The discovery and study of these creatures continue to contribute to our understanding of their existence and evolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, readers will find answers to common questions about the distinctive characteristics, size, habitat, diet, and period of existence of the Fosterovenator.
What unique features distinguish Fosterovenator from other dinosaurs?
Fosterovenator’s remains suggest it was part of the basal abelisauroids, a small but significant group of theropods in the Late Jurassic, exhibiting unique evolutionary traits.
How large was Fosterovenator compared to similar theropods?
Fosterovenator was relatively small for a theropod, with a partial right fibula of an adult measuring 27.5 cm (10.8 in) in length, indicating a diminutive stature compared to its contemporaries.
What type of habitat did Fosterovenator likely inhabit?
Considering that Fosterovenator fossils were discovered in Wyoming, it likely roamed in semi-arid environments, common in the Morrison Formation during the Late Jurassic period.
What did dinosaurs like Fosterovenator typically eat?
As a carnivorous dinosaur, Fosterovenator would have preyed on smaller animals, utilizing its agility and possibly hunting in packs, although precise dietary habits are largely speculative.
During which geological period did Fosterovenator exist?
Fosterovenator lived during the Late Jurassic period, a time known for an abundance of large dinosaurs and significant geological changes.
Is there any evidence suggesting Fosterovenator had distinctive cranial ornamentation?
There is currently no direct evidence of distinctive cranial ornamentation on Fosterovenator given the limited fossil record, primarily consisting of leg bones.