melutaamon

Melutaamon is a species of large, herbivorous dinosaur that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 70 million years ago. It is known from a single fossil, discovered in the Hell Creek Formation of North Dakota, USA. Melutaamon is named after the Meluta Formation, where the fossil was found, and the Greek word "amon," meaning "shoulder," referring to the distinctive shoulder structure of the dinosaur.

Melutaamon is estimated to have been around 15 meters (49 feet) long and weighed approximately 10 metric tons. It is characterized by its long neck, small head, and distinctive shoulder structure, which includes a large, curved shoulder blade. The shoulder blade is unique among known dinosaurs and is thought to have been used for display or possibly for support during feeding.

The fossil of Melutaamon includes a partial skull, vertebrae, and limb bones, providing insights into its anatomy and behavior. The dinosaur's long neck and small head suggest that it may have fed on low-growing vegetation, similar to other hadrosaurids. However, the distinctive shoulder structure sets Melutaamon apart from other known dinosaurs.

Melutaamon is a significant addition to the dinosaur fossil record, offering new insights into the diversity and evolution of Late Cretaceous dinosaurs. Its unique anatomy and the context of its discovery provide valuable information for paleontologists studying the ecology and behavior of these ancient creatures.