Mapusaurus

dinosaur · Argentina · predator · Early Cretaceous

Giant meat-eater. Mapusaurus was a huge predatory dinosaur that belonged to a family called carcharodontosaurs, which were some of the largest hunting dinosaurs ever.

Found in Argentina. Scientists discovered remains of Mapusaurus in Argentina in rock formations called the Huincul Formation, which dates back to around 100 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period.

Pack of fossils. Between seven and nine Mapusaurus skeletons were found buried together in one spot, suggesting these dinosaurs may have hunted in groups.

Named for rocks. The dinosaur was named Mapusaurus roseae because it was found in pink and red-colored rocks, and partly named after a sponsor who helped fund the research.