Parasaurolophus
PALAEONTOLOGICAL RECORD
Parasaurolophus is a genus of hadrosaurid "duck-billed" dinosaur that lived in what is now western North America and possibly Asia during the Late Cretaceous period, about 76.5–73 million years ago. It was a large herbivore that could reach over 9 metres (30 ft) long and weigh over 5 metric tons, and were able to move as a biped and a quadruped. Three species are universally recognized: P. walkeri, P. tubicen, and the short-crested P. cyrtocristatus. Additionally, a fourth species, P. jiayinensis, has been proposed, although it is more commonly placed in the separate genus Charonosaurus. Remains are known from Alberta, New Mexico, and Utah, as well as possibly Heilongjiang if Charonosaurus is in fact part of the genus. The genus was first described in 1922 by William Parks from a skull and partial skeleton found in Alberta.
DISCOVERY
Described in 1922 by William Parks.
DIETARY PROFILE
Standard herding browser.
NOTABLE PALAEONTOLOGY FACTS
- The giant crest contained complex respiratory tubes used to amplify sound across miles like a trombone.
- Most of its distinct features evolved for herd communication and mating rights.
HOLLYWOOD INACCURACIES
- The distinct calls made by the animal in the films align with paleotonlogy models of air resonating in its crest.
