Titanosaurid

Titanosaurid refers to a diverse group of sauropod dinosaurs that were the dominant herbivores in many ecosystems during the Cretaceous period. They are characterized by their exceptionally large size, with some species ranking among the largest land animals ever to have lived. Titanosaurids possessed the typical sauropod body plan: a long neck and tail, a massive barrel-shaped torso, and four pillar-like legs. Their fossil remains are found on all continents, indicating a widespread distribution.

The group is known for its incredible variety in size, from relatively small forms to giants like Argentinosaurus and Patagotitan. Their skulls, often poorly preserved, suggest a variety of feeding strategies, with some likely having specialized diets. Titanosaurids are also notable for their diverse integumentary structures, including bony plates called osteoderms, which may have served as armor. Their eggs and nests have also been found in abundance, providing insights into their reproductive behaviors and social structures. The extinction of the titanosaurs, along with all other non-avian dinosaurs, occurred at the end of the Cretaceous period.