The Amazing Long-Necked Dinosaur
Meet Mamenchisaurus, one of the most remarkable long-necked dinosaurs of the Late Jurassic period, around 160 million years ago!
| Meaning | Mamenxi lizard [Mamenchi-saurus] |
| Pronunciation | ma-MEN-chee-sore-us |
| When: | Late Jurassic (about 160–145 million years ago) |
| Where: | Asia (present-day China) |
| What: | Sauropod (quadrupedal herbivorous) |
| Weight: | Estimated around 20–30 metric tons |
| Length: | Approximately 21–23 meters (69–75 feet) |
| Diet: | Herbivorous (ate high vegetation) |
| Discovered: | First described by C.C. Young in 1954 |
Named after the Mamenchuan region in China where its fossils were first discovered, Mamenchisaurus is famous for its incredibly long neck, which could reach lengths of up to 15 meters (50 feet).
This herbivorous giant used its long neck to reach high into trees and bushes to feed on foliage, while its long tail helped to balance its massive body.
Mamenchisaurus was part of the sauropod group, characterized by their immense size, long necks, and small heads.
Imagine Mamenchisaurus peacefully grazing in lush Jurassic forests, its graceful movements and enormous size making it a majestic sight.