megalosauroid

Megalosauroids are a group of large, bipedal dinosaurs that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 100 to 94 million years ago. They are characterized by their large size, robust build, and distinctive skull features. Megalosauroids are believed to have been herbivorous, with some species exhibiting adaptations for browsing or grazing.

The group is named after Megalosaurus, one of its earliest known members, which was first described in 1824. Megalosauroids are further divided into two main subgroups: Megalosauridae and Tetanurae. Megalosauridae includes taxa like Megalosaurus and Torvosaurus, while Tetanurae encompasses a diverse array of dinosaurs, including the famous Tyrannosaurus rex.

Fossils of megalosauroids have been discovered on all continents, indicating a widespread distribution. They are known from a variety of habitats, including coastal plains, deserts, and forests. The largest known megalosauroid is Argentinosaurus, which could reach lengths of up to 36 meters and weigh over 70 tons.

Megalosauroids played a significant role in their ecosystems, and their extinction at the end of the Cretaceous period is thought to have been caused by the same asteroid impact that wiped out the non-avian dinosaurs. Their fossils provide valuable insights into the evolution and diversity of large theropod dinosaurs.