World of Dinosaurs/Coelophysis

Basics

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Coelophysis means "Hollow Form".

Coelophysis lived during the Triassic Period.

Anatomy

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  • Long slender skull
  • Stands on elongated toes
  • reduction in number of digits
  • Upright stance on rear legs
  • long neck and tail

Phylogeny

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Coelophysis is a theropod.

All theropods are dinosaurs.

All dinosaurs are amniotes and all dinosaurs are tetrapods.

Biomechanics

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Coelophysis jaws act much like a lever, making it more suited for a slashing motion.

Fossil Record

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Coelophysis are mainly found in New Mexico.

Ecology

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Coelophysis lived in an environment with fish, based on remains found in fossilized stomachs.

Grasses and flowers had not evolved yet.

Biogeography

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Coelophysis most likely lived in a dry, desert-like environment.