Sauropod Caudal (Tail) Vertebra | Morrison Formation

Approx. size: 16"×10"x5"
Approx. weight: 8 lbs.
Stand not included.

The vertebra experienced compression and deformation due to geologic forces. The bone has been repaired.

Sauropods were herbivorous dinosaurs known for their immense size, elongated neck and tail, and quadrupedal stance. These creatures were not only the largest of all dinosaurs, but also the largest terrestrial animals in history. They arose during the Early Jurassic Epoch (201 million to 174 million years ago) and attained immense size and diversity during the Late Jurassic Epoch (164 million to 145 million years ago). They continued to thrive through the Cretaceous Period (145 million to 66 million years ago).

All sauropods shared a similar body structure, including a small head, an extremely long neck, a large, heavy body containing a massive gut, thick legs supporting the torso, and a long, tapered tail. Although it was once believed that sauropods lived in shallow water to help support their massive bodies, there is now evidence suggesting they were well-equipped for living on land. Their long necks allowed them to reach the tops of trees, much like modern giraffes. Their teeth were spoon-shaped or pencil-shaped and they may have relied on gastroliths or gut bacteria to digest the plant matter they consumed.