The uppermost sedimentary rocks of the Karoo Basin in southern Africa contain a rich record of Triassic and Jurassic dinosaur fossils (some 250 to 180 million years ago) . Since the discovery of the first dinosaur fossils in the Karoo Basin in the early 19th century, paleontologists have been working to uncover and study these remarkable creatures. The Karoo Basin is particularly important for understanding the early evolution of dinosaurs, including the transition from small bipedal forms to larger, quadrupedal herbivores and carnivores.
Some of the most famous dinosaurs from the Karoo Basin include Massospondylus, a bipedal herbivore, and Euskelosaurus, a larger quadrupedal herbivore. In recent years, several new species have also been discovered, including a giant sauropod named Ledumahadi mafube, which was over 14 meters long and weighed around 12 tons.
Scientists are also using advanced techniques to study dinosaur fossils from the Karoo Basin, such as CT scanning and fossil bone histology which allow them to better understand the internal anatomy, growth history and behavior of these creatures. In addition, isotopic analysis of dinosaur teeth and bones is providing insights into their diet and the climate in which they lived.
Some of the most famous dinosaurs from the Karoo Basin include Massospondylus, a bipedal herbivore, and Euskelosaurus, a larger quadrupedal herbivore. In recent years, several new species have also been discovered, including a giant sauropod named Ledumahadi mafube, which was over 14 meters long and weighed around 12 tons.
Scientists are also using advanced techniques to study dinosaur fossils from the Karoo Basin, such as CT scanning and fossil bone histology which allow them to better understand the internal anatomy, growth history and behavior of these creatures. In addition, isotopic analysis of dinosaur teeth and bones is providing insights into their diet and the climate in which they lived.