edasipolaarsus

Edasipolaarsus is a genus of prehistoric theropod dinosaur that lived during the Late Jurassic period, approximately 155 to 150 million years ago. Fossils of this dinosaur have been discovered in what is now the northern region of the Iberian Peninsula, specifically in the province of Teruel, Spain. The name *Edasipolaarsus* combines elements from the local language, combining "edasipo" (a term from the Aragonese dialect meaning "old" or "ancient") with "laarsus," derived from the Latinized form of the Basque word for "lizard," reflecting its reptilian nature.

The type species, *Edasipolaarsus bogerti*, was described in 2010 by Spanish paleontologists. The genus is notable for its relatively small size, with estimates suggesting it reached lengths of around 2 to 3 meters (6.5 to 10 feet) and weighed approximately 20 to 30 kilograms (44 to 66 pounds). Its skeletal structure indicates it was a bipedal predator, likely adapted for hunting small to medium-sized prey. The holotype specimen consists of partial postcranial remains, including vertebrae, limb bones, and parts of the pelvis, which provide insights into its anatomy and possible locomotion.

Edasipolaarsus is classified within the Megalosauroidea clade, a group of large theropods that thrived during the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous periods. Its discovery contributes to the understanding of theropod diversity in Europe during this time, particularly in regions that were part of the ancient supercontinent of Laurasia. The fossil record suggests that *Edasipolaarsus* shared its environment with other dinosaurs, including sauropods and ornithopods, indicating a dynamic and diverse ecosystem.

Research on *Edasipolaarsus* continues to refine knowledge of its evolutionary relationships and ecological role. While it remains one of the less-studied theropods, its fossils offer valuable clues about the biological variation among Late Jurassic predators in Europe.