World of Dinosaurs/Coelophysis
Basics edit
Coelophysis means "Hollow Form".
Coelophysis lived during the Triassic Period.
Anatomy edit
- Long slender skull
- Stands on elongated toes
- reduction in number of digits
- Upright stance on rear legs
- long neck and tail
Phylogeny edit
Coelophysis is a theropod.
All theropods are dinosaurs.
All dinosaurs are amniotes and all dinosaurs are tetrapods.
Biomechanics edit
Coelophysis jaws act much like a lever, making it more suited for a slashing motion.
Fossil Record edit
Coelophysis are mainly found in New Mexico.
Ecology edit
Coelophysis lived in an environment with fish, based on remains found in fossilized stomachs.
Grasses and flowers had not evolved yet.
Biogeography edit
Coelophysis most likely lived in a dry, desert-like environment.