Types Of Dinosaurs Trivia Facts Quiz
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This trivia facts quiz is on Types of Dinosaurs! Other than trying to identify the lives that dinosaurs lived through their remains, there are a lot of things that remain a mystery today, and one of the stories that people can’t seem to agree on is how the legendary animals are extinct. Do you think you know about dinosaurs enough to pass this quiz?
Whether you are a dinosaur enthusiast, a student looking to learn more about paleontology, or just someone curious about the ancient inhabitants of our planet, this quiz offers a fun and educational experience. You will Read morediscover lesser-known types of dinosaurs, understand their evolutionary traits, and get a glimpse into the world as it existed millions of years ago.
Ready to prove your dinosaur expertise or learn something new? Dive into the "Types of Dinosaurs" quiz now and let your prehistoric adventure begin! Each correct answer will bring you closer to becoming a dinosaur master, so sharpen your claws, and let’s get started!
Types of Dinosaurs Questions and Answers
- 1.
How many fingers did the Tyrannosaurus rex have?
- A.
5
- B.
3
- C.
2
- D.
4
Correct Answer
C. 2Explanation
Tyrannosaurus rex had only two fingers on each hand. These two fingers were large and powerful, equipped with sharp claws. This adaptation allowed the T. rex to grasp and hold onto its prey effectively. Having only two fingers was a distinctive feature of the T. rex, setting it apart from other dinosaurs that had more fingers.Rate this question:
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- 2.
How many legs did Stegosaurus have?
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
3
- D.
4
Correct Answer
D. 4Explanation
The Stegosaurus was a quadrupedal dinosaur, equipped with four legs to support its heavy, armored body. Characterized by its distinctive back plates and spiked tail, this Late Jurassic herbivore had shorter forelimbs compared to its hindlimbs, contributing to a somewhat sprawling front stance that provided stability and support. The structure of its legs suggests Stegosaurus was not particularly fast but could make quick, powerful defensive maneuvers when threatened. This four-legged posture was crucial for supporting its weight and for effective movement through its prehistoric habitat, allowing it to graze and defend itself as needed.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What does the name "Triceratops" mean in English?
- A.
Three-horned face
- B.
Three-horned apex
- C.
Triple-spear spinner
- D.
Three-sharp head
Correct Answer
A. Three-horned faceExplanation
The name "Triceratops" in English means "Three-horned face". This name accurately describes the physical characteristics of the dinosaur, as it had three horns on its face. The term "face" refers to the front part of the dinosaur's head where the horns were located. This name is widely recognized and used to identify this particular dinosaur species.Rate this question:
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- 4.
When was it concluded that Brontosaurus was a separate dinosaur from Apatosaurus?
- A.
2015
- B.
1998
- C.
1993
- D.
2006
Correct Answer
A. 2015Explanation
In 2015, it was concluded that Brontosaurus was a separate dinosaur from Apatosaurus. Prior to this, it was believed that Brontosaurus was not a valid genus and that the name was a synonym for Apatosaurus. However, a study conducted in 2015 by a team of scientists found distinct differences between the two dinosaurs, leading to the recognition of Brontosaurus as a separate species once again. This discovery brought back the iconic name Brontosaurus, which had been popularized in popular culture for many years.Rate this question:
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- 5.
How large was Velociraptor in real life?
- A.
About the size of a chicken.
- B.
As large as a medium-sized dog.
- C.
Similar in size to a small car.
- D.
Comparable to a turkey.
Correct Answer
D. Comparable to a turkey.Explanation
Velociraptor was much smaller than popularly depicted in films like Jurassic Park. In reality, Velociraptors were about the size of a turkey, not much larger than 2 meters (6.5 feet) in length, and 0.5 meters (1.6 feet) tall at the hip, weighing around 15 to 20 kilograms (33 to 44 pounds).Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which taxonomic group below was the Pteranodon in?
- A.
Glidians
- B.
Sauropods
- C.
Plesiosaurs
- D.
Pterosaurs
Correct Answer
D. PterosaursExplanation
Pteranodon belonged to the taxonomic group of Pterosaurs. Pterosaurs were a group of flying reptiles that lived during the Mesozoic Era. They were not dinosaurs, but rather a separate group of reptiles that evolved the ability to fly. Pteranodon was one of the largest and most well-known pterosaurs, with a wingspan of up to 30 feet. It had a long, slender beak and a crest on its head. Pterosaurs were the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight and were highly successful during their time.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What did Ankylosaurus eat?
- A.
Wood and roots of trees
- B.
Plants
- C.
Fish
- D.
Insects
Correct Answer
B. PlantsExplanation
Ankylosaurus was a herbivorous dinosaur that primarily fed on plants. Its strong, beak-like mouth was adapted for cropping vegetation, and its teeth were designed for grinding tough plant material. Fossil evidence, such as stomach contents and dental wear patterns, supports the conclusion that Ankylosaurus had a plant-based diet. Additionally, its massive size and slow-moving nature would have made it difficult for Ankylosaurus to catch and consume fish or insects. Therefore, the most likely and supported answer is that Ankylosaurus ate plants.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which of the following body parts did Parasaurolophus have?
- A.
A tail club
- B.
Confirmed extremely bright red skin
- C.
A head crest
- D.
Sickle-like claws
Correct Answer
C. A head crestExplanation
Parasaurolophus had a head crest. This distinguishing feature is well-known and has been identified through fossil evidence. The head crest of Parasaurolophus was a long, curved structure that extended from the back of its skull. It is believed that this crest was used for communication and producing sounds, possibly for attracting mates or warning others of danger. The head crest of Parasaurolophus is one of its most recognizable characteristics and sets it apart from other dinosaur species.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which facts below are true about Spinosaurus? (Multiple choice)
- A.
It lived in North Africa.
- B.
Its fossils were burned in 1977 as "fossil vandalism."
- C.
It fed primarily on winged reptiles like Pteranodon.
- D.
It had a sail/multiple spines on its back.
Correct Answer(s)
A. It lived in North Africa.
D. It had a sail/multiple spines on its back.Explanation
The true facts about Spinosaurus are that it lived in North Africa and it had a sail/multiple spines on its back. Spinosaurus is one of the most distinctive dinosaurs due to its large sail-like structure made up of spines extending from its back vertebrae, covered in skin. This sail is thought to have been used for display, thermoregulation, or storing fat. Spinosaurus resided in what is now North Africa during the Cretaceous period, thriving in a wet, swampy environment, which supports the hypothesis that it was semi-aquatic.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What can Brachiosaurus' height be compared to?
- A.
A vertical schoolbus
- B.
A five-story building
- C.
The Statue of Liberty
- D.
The average height of a house.
Correct Answer
B. A five-story buildingExplanation
The height of a Brachiosaurus can most accurately be compared to a five-story building. Brachiosaurus, one of the most well-known sauropods, was notable for its long neck, which contributed significantly to its total height. This dinosaur could reach up to about 15 meters (49 feet) tall, which aligns well with the height of a five-story building. While comparisons to a vertical school bus or the average house (usually two stories) underrepresent its towering stature, the Statue of Liberty, standing about 93 meters from ground to torch tip, far exceeds the height of Brachiosaurus. Thus, the five-story building provides the most fitting and realistic comparison for understanding the scale of Brachiosaurus' impressive height.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which of the following dinosaurs did Apatosaurus most resemble?
- A.
Velociraptor
- B.
Triceratops
- C.
Brachiosaurus
- D.
Unenlagia
Correct Answer
C. BrachiosaurusExplanation
Apatosaurus most resembled Brachiosaurus. Both Apatosaurus and Brachiosaurus were large, long-necked dinosaurs with a similar body structure. They both had a long neck and tail, and walked on four legs. While Velociraptor and Triceratops were different types of dinosaurs with distinct features, Unenlagia was a smaller, bird-like dinosaur that did not resemble Apatosaurus in appearance. Therefore, Brachiosaurus is the most similar dinosaur to Apatosaurus.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What does the name "Pachycephalosaurus" mean in English?
- A.
Spine-headed freak
- B.
Dense-bone lizard
- C.
Fast Czech lizard
- D.
Thick-headed lizard
Correct Answer
D. Thick-headed lizardExplanation
The name "Pachycephalosaurus" translates to "thick-headed lizard" in English. This translation is derived from the Greek words "pachy" meaning thick, "kephale" meaning head, and "saurus" meaning lizard. The name aptly describes the dinosaur's most distinctive feature: its extraordinarily thick skull roof, which is several inches thick and dome-shaped. Pachycephalosaurus is famous for this thick, bony dome atop its skull, which paleontologists believe was possibly used for head-butting during intraspecific combat, similar to the behavior seen in modern-day animals like bighorn sheep and muskoxen. This characteristic makes the Pachycephalosaurus one of the most recognizable dinosaurs studied today.Rate this question:
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- 13.
About how fast did Gallimimus run, according to scientific estimations?
- A.
Like the average North American motorcycle
- B.
Like an ostrich
- C.
A newborn buffalo
- D.
Average car in traffic
Correct Answer
B. Like an ostrichExplanation
Gallimimus, a genus of ornithomimid theropod dinosaurs, was known for its long legs and bird-like build, which suggest it was built for speed. Scientific estimations often compare its running capabilities to that of modern ostriches. Ostriches can run at speeds up to about 70 kilometers per hour (43 miles per hour). Estimates for Gallimimus also suggest a maximum speed in this range, making it one of the fastest dinosaurs.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following countries have not had any Edmontosaurus fossils excavated from them (multiple choice)?
- A.
Canada
- B.
New Zealand
- C.
India
- D.
United States
Correct Answer(s)
B. New Zealand
C. IndiaExplanation
New Zealand's dinosaur fossil record primarily includes marine reptiles and a few non-avian dinosaurs, which are mostly from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. However, there is no record of Edmontosaurus fossils in New Zealand. India's dinosaur fossils from the Cretaceous period largely belong to abelisaurids and titanosauriform sauropods. Like New Zealand, India has not yielded any Edmontosaurus fossils.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following was the Pterodactylus larger than?
- A.
Quetzalcoatlus
- B.
Archaeopteryx
- C.
Compsognathus
- D.
Anchiornis
Correct Answer
B. ArchaeopteryxExplanation
Pterodactylus, a Late Jurassic pterosaur, generally had a wingspan of around 1.5 meters, though some could reach over 2.5 meters. Comparatively, Archaeopteryx, known as the "first bird", had a significantly smaller wingspan of about 0.5 meters, making it smaller than Pterodactylus. Quetzalcoatlus far exceeds both, as one of the largest known flying animals with a wingspan ranging from 10 to 11 meters. Compsognathus, a small theropod dinosaur, although similar in length to Pterodactylus at about 1 meter, was not a flyer. Anchiornis, another small feathered dinosaur, had an even smaller wingspan or glide span under 0.5 meters. Therefore, among the given choices, Archaeopteryx was indeed smaller than Pterodactylus, making it the correct answer in the context of wing or glide span comparison.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Diplodocus had a long tail that is hypothesized to be used as a...
- A.
"Crane" the same way an elephant uses its trunk to bring food to the mouth.
- B.
Fifth leg so the dinosaur could rear up in a bipedal position supported by the tail.
- C.
Whip to potentially hurt predators and scare them away with a large cracking sound.
- D.
Rope to strangle necks of nearby slow herbivores and carnivores to prevent circulation.
Correct Answer
C. Whip to potentially hurt predators and scare them away with a large cracking sound.Explanation
The long tail of the Diplodocus is hypothesized to have been used as a whip, which could potentially hurt predators and scare them away with a loud cracking sound. This idea comes from the tail's extremely long and slender structure, which tapers to a fine point, resembling a whip. Some paleontologists suggest that by rapidly moving the tail in a certain way, Diplodocus could produce a sound similar to a whip crack, which might have served as a deterrent to predators. This use of the tail as a defensive mechanism is considered a plausible function given the physical attributes of the tail and the likely interactions with predators during its time.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Protoceratops was hunted by which (of the) dinosaur(s) below?
- A.
Velociraptor
- B.
Dilophosaurus
- C.
Stegosaurus
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
A. VelociraptorExplanation
Protoceratops was hunted by Velociraptor, as evidenced by fossil finds that show these two dinosaurs locked in combat. The famous "Fighting Dinosaurs" fossil from Mongolia captures a Velociraptor and a Protoceratops in a death grip, illustrating a predatory attack. Velociraptor, a small but agile theropod, lived during the same period and region as Protoceratops, making them natural predator-prey counterparts. In contrast, Dilophosaurus lived earlier and in different regions, and Stegosaurus, which was also not contemporaneous with Protoceratops and lived in a different habitat, was a herbivore.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What can be said about the Coelophysis dinosaur?
- A.
A Jurassic large predator about the size of the T. rex.
- B.
An aquatic shark-like reptile that fed primarily on plankton.
- C.
A light, Triassic carnivore about half the height of an adult.
- D.
A winged reptile flying before the first dinosaurs evolved.
Correct Answer
C. A light, Triassic carnivore about half the height of an adult.Explanation
Coelophysis was a small and agile carnivorous dinosaur from the late Triassic period, roughly 203 to 196 million years ago. It measured about 3 meters in length and stood 1 meter tall at the hips, weighing between 15 to 20 kilograms. Characterized by its slender build, long neck and tail, and hollow bones, Coelophysis was adept at running swiftly to catch prey such as insects, lizards, and small dinosaurs. Fossils discovered in large numbers at New Mexico's Ghost Ranch suggest they may have lived in groups. This early theropod is pivotal for understanding the evolution of later, larger theropods including the Tyrannosaurus rex.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Iguanodon was a herbivorous dinosaur.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Iguanodon was a herbivorous dinosaur that lived during the early Cretaceous period. It was one of the first dinosaurs to be discovered and described, and its fossils have been found in various parts of the world. Iguanodon is known for its distinctive thumb spikes and its ability to walk on both two and four legs. It was a significant species in the study of dinosaurs and played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of these ancient creatures.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Dimetrodon was not actually a dinosaur, but many people believe it to be. What was it, then?
- A.
A pelycosaur
- B.
An jenitsodon
- C.
A hadesaur
- D.
An archodontian
Correct Answer
A. A pelycosaurExplanation
Dimetrodon was not actually a dinosaur, but rather a pelycosaur. Pelycosaurs were a group of reptiles that lived during the Permian period, predating dinosaurs. They were characterized by their sail-like structures on their backs, which were likely used for thermoregulation. Dimetrodon, with its large sail and carnivorous diet, is one of the most well-known pelycosaurs. Although often mistaken for a dinosaur due to its appearance, it is important to recognize that it belongs to a different group of reptiles.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which of the following did Dilophosaurus not have?
- A.
An enlarged scythe-like second toe 20 cm long.
- B.
A neck frill like that of a frilled-neck lizard.
- C.
Two crests on top of its head parallel to each other.
- D.
The ability to spit poison like a spitting cobra.
Correct Answer(s)
A. An enlarged scythe-like second toe 20 cm long.
B. A neck frill like that of a frilled-neck lizard.
D. The ability to spit poison like a spitting cobra.Explanation
Dilophosaurus, a theropod dinosaur from the Early Jurassic period, did not have the ability to spit poison. This idea was popularized by the movie "Jurassic Park," but it has no basis in scientific evidence. In reality, Dilophosaurus is known for its distinctive physical features, which include two crests on top of its head and possibly a neck frill, although the latter is speculative and not universally accepted. The portrayal of Dilophosaurus with a venom-spitting ability is purely fictional and not supported by paleontological findings.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Why was the Psittacosaurus named that way?
- A.
It ate many plums, evidenced by the high amount of plum pits in its stomach.
- B.
It lived near the coastlines of an ancient ocean known as Psitta when Pangaea was still together.
- C.
It was named after a famous German paleontologist known as Rudolf Psittas.
- D.
Its skull looked like a parrot, especially the beak, but with no feathers.
Correct Answer
D. Its skull looked like a parrot, especially the beak, but with no feathers.Explanation
Psittacosaurus is named for its distinctive parrot-like beak. The name "Psittacosaurus" translates to "parrot lizard," reflecting the shape of its skull and beak, which resemble those of a parrot. This dinosaur, from the Early Cretaceous period, was a small, herbivorous ceratopsian whose beak was likely adapted for clipping and tearing vegetation. The beak-like structure is a prominent feature that differentiates it from other dinosaurs and indicates its feeding habits and ecological niche. The other options provided do not accurately represent the reasons behind the naming of Psittacosaurus.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Compsognathus was a myth started by a man named Carl Strauss. The public soon found out that it was a myth after...
- A.
It was never a myth.
- B.
Paleontologists reassured that no such fossils were ever discovered.
- C.
Carl had been interviewed by online newspapers and confessed.
- D.
The Mythbusters did a segment that involved research on the so-called "Compsognathus.
Correct Answer
A. It was never a myth.Explanation
The given answer states that "It was never a myth." This means that Compsognathus was not a myth and did actually exist. This contradicts the initial statement that Compsognathus was a myth started by Carl Strauss. Therefore, the correct answer suggests that Compsognathus was not a myth and was a real creature.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Where was Giganotosaurus discovered?
- A.
Mexico
- B.
Antarctica
- C.
South America
- D.
Indonesia
Correct Answer
C. South AmericaExplanation
Giganotosaurus was discovered and lived in South America. Fossils of Giganotosaurus have been found in Argentina, specifically in the Patagonia region. The discovery of these fossils suggests that Giganotosaurus roamed the land that is now South America during the Late Cretaceous period, around 99 to 97 million years ago. The presence of Giganotosaurus in South America indicates that this region was once home to a diverse range of dinosaur species and highlights the importance of Patagonia as a significant paleontological site.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Why is Saltasaurus named that way?
- A.
It was thought to have bone armor on its back, but that was actually fossilized salt deposits.
- B.
It was discovered by a paleontologist named Enrique Salta.
- C.
It was named after the city of Salta in Argentina.
- D.
The fossils were discovered with over 400 kg of salt on them.
Correct Answer
C. It was named after the city of Salta in Argentina.Explanation
Saltasaurus was named after the Salta Province in Argentina, where its fossils were first discovered. This naming convention reflects the common practice of naming dinosaurs based on geographic locations significant to where they were found. The dinosaur is notable for its osteoderms, which are bony armor plates, not to be confused with salt deposits. The association with the city of Salta is purely geographical and serves to honor the discovery site of this unique dinosaur.Rate this question:
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- 26.
What is true below for Guanlong?
- A.
It was a slow-moving herbivore with a small tail club.
- B.
It was an Asian carnivore that lived in the Late Jurassic.
- C.
It was a deadly snake called a "dragon" after being discovered in 1884.
- D.
It was a small carnivore the size of a chicken, estimated to be able to jump a meter in height.
Correct Answer
B. It was an Asian carnivore that lived in the Late Jurassic.Explanation
Guanlong was an Asian carnivore that lived during the Late Jurassic period. This statement is true for Guanlong, a genus characterized by its distinctive crest and classified under the family Proceratosauridae, a group of theropod dinosaurs. Guanlong was relatively small compared to other theropods, with early specimens estimated to be around 3 meters in length. Its fossils have been primarily found in what is now China. The dinosaur is noted for its elaborate, hollow crest on its skull, which was possibly used for display or thermoregulatory functions, similar to structures found in other theropod species. This crest, along with its size and geographic location, helps distinguish Guanlong in the diverse theropod lineage.Rate this question:
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- 27.
What did Suchomimus primarily eat?
- A.
Dragonflies
- B.
Turtles
- C.
Treefruit
- D.
Fish
Correct Answer
D. FishExplanation
Suchomimus, a dinosaur from the Cretaceous period, had a long snout with sharp teeth, indicating that it was well-suited for catching and eating fish. Fossils of Suchomimus have been found near ancient riverbeds, suggesting that it lived in a habitat where fish were abundant. Additionally, the structure of its jaws and teeth resemble those of modern-day fish-eating animals. Therefore, it can be inferred that Suchomimus primarily ate fish as its main source of food.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What is true about the Argentinosaurus?
- A.
The largest dinosaur with adequate fossils to confirm it's size.
- B.
The smallest herbivorous dinosaur that still fought a carnivore.
- C.
The largest reptile discovered in Argentina.
- D.
The first South American dinosaur discovered by a European scientist.
Correct Answer
A. The largest dinosaur with adequate fossils to confirm it's size.Explanation
The true statement about the Argentinosaurus is that it is the largest dinosaur with adequate fossils to confirm its size. Argentinosaurus is known to be one of the largest terrestrial animals that ever existed, with estimates of its length reaching up to 30 meters (98 feet) or more and its weight possibly as much as 100 tonnes or even greater. The fossils discovered in Argentina provide sufficient evidence about its massive size, making it one of the most astounding sauropod dinosaurs ever found. While it was indeed discovered in Argentina, it is not merely the largest reptile discovered there but ranks among the largest dinosaurs globally. The claim about it being the first South American dinosaur discovered by a European scientist is inaccurate, as several other dinosaurs were identified before Argentinosaurus. Thus, its remarkable size and the substantial fossil evidence supporting it highlight its unique position in dinosaur studies.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which dinosaur was the Styracosaurus a relative of?
- A.
Spinosaurus
- B.
Triceratops
- C.
Archaeopteryx
- D.
Tyrannosaurus
Correct Answer
B. TriceratopsExplanation
Styracosaurus was a relative of Triceratops. Both Styracosaurus and Triceratops are members of the same family of dinosaurs known as ceratopsians. They share similar physical features, such as a large frill at the back of their skulls and horns on their faces. This suggests a close evolutionary relationship between the two species. Spinosaurus, Archaeopteryx, and Tyrannosaurus belong to different dinosaur families and are not closely related to Styracosaurus.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of the following body parts did Shunosaurus have (Multiple choice)?
- A.
A long neck compared to its body.
- B.
A tail club.
- C.
A small brain compared to its body size.
- D.
Two eyes situated on its head.
Correct Answer(s)
A. A long neck compared to its body.
B. A tail club.
C. A small brain compared to its body size.
D. Two eyes situated on its head.Explanation
Shunosaurus had a long neck compared to its body, which is supported by fossil evidence. It also had a tail club, as indicated by the presence of a large bony structure at the end of its tail. Shunosaurus had a small brain compared to its body size, as inferred from the size of its skull. Additionally, it had two eyes situated on its head, which is a characteristic feature of most vertebrate animals.Rate this question:
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