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Coelophysis

Coelophysis bauri

Coelophysis was a prehistoric dinosaur known for its distinctive features. Scientists study its bones to learn about how dinosaurs lived.

Habitat: Mesozoic forests and floodplains

Appearance

The Coelophysis is a slender, bipedal dinosaur with a long, S-shaped neck and an equally long tail. It has a small head with sharp, serrated teeth, and its skin was likely covered in fine scales with earthy tones of brown or green to blend in with its environment.

KingdomAnimalia
Coelophysis
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Coelophysis

Category

Ancient

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Coelophysis was one of the earliest known meat-eating dinosaurs on Earth!

Huge fossil beds found in New Mexico contain hundreds of Coelophysis!

It could run incredibly fast, up to 30 mph, to catch its prey!

Its name means 'hollow form' because its bones were very light.

Special abilities

Ability

Swift Hunter

Coelophysis can run incredibly fast because its lightweight, hollow bones make it very agile for pursuit.

Ability

Keen Eyes

Coelophysis has sharp eyesight that helps it spot small, fast-moving prey in the Triassic landscape.

Ability

Grasping Claws

Coelophysis possesses three-fingered hands with sharp claws, perfect for catching and holding onto prey.

Measurements & details

Estimated Length
2.5-3 m
Estimated Weight
15-25 kg
Era
Triassic
Extinct Millions Years Ago
203

Diet & Feeding

A nimble predator, it hunted small animals and insects with great speed and agility.

Primary Foods

  • small reptiles
  • insects
  • fish
  • early mammals

Foraging Method

  • Pursuit

Ecological connections

hunts

Revueltosaurus

Revueltosaurus callenderi

Ate its eggs or juveniles.

hunts

Hesperosuchus

Hesperosuchus agilis

Preyed on this agile reptile.

hunts

Pseudocyces

Pseudocyces rarus

Hunted this small, early mammal.

Traits

Also known as

Coelophysis Bauri

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

While extremely dangerous in their time, this creature is now extinct.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Coelophysis?

2.5-3 m

How much does Coelophysis weigh?

15-25 kg

What does Coelophysis eat?

A nimble predator, it hunted small animals and insects with great speed and agility.

Where is Coelophysis usually found?

Mesozoic forests and floodplains

How does Coelophysis hunt?

Pursuit

What geologic era did Coelophysis live in?

Triassic

When did Coelophysis go extinct?

203

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