Eodromaeuss

Eodromaeus is an extinct genus of small, carnivorous theropod dinosaur that lived during the Late Triassic period. Fossil evidence suggests that Eodromaeus lived approximately 231 million years ago in what is now South America. It is considered one of the earliest known dinosaurs, belonging to the basal group of theropods.

The type species, Eodromaeus murphi, was described in 2011 based on a partial skeleton discovered in the Ischigualasto Formation of Argentina. This formation is well-known for preserving some of the oldest dinosaur fossils. Eodromaeus was a bipedal predator, likely measuring around 1.2 meters (4 feet) in length and weighing a few kilograms. Its skeletal features, such as its slender build and sharp teeth, indicate a predatory lifestyle, likely feeding on insects, small reptiles, and possibly other small dinosaurs.

The discovery of Eodromaeus has been significant for understanding the early evolution of dinosaurs. Its primitive characteristics help paleontologists trace the lineage of theropods back to their origins, providing insights into the diversification of dinosaurs during the Triassic. It exhibits a mosaic of traits, some of which are shared with earlier archosaurs and others that are more characteristic of later, more derived theropods. This position in the dinosaur family tree suggests that many key dinosaur features may have evolved earlier than previously thought.