15 Genusaurus Facts You'll Never Forget

Akinwalere Olaleye
Jan 10, 2023 By Akinwalere Olaleye
Originally Published on Jan 10, 2023
Edited by Luca Demetriou
Fact-checked by Sakshi Raturi
Genusaurus facts talk about this creature from the Lower Cretaceous.

The Genusaurus is a type of theropod dinosaur belonging to the family of Abelisauridae. It was found between 1984-1986 in the Albian Bevon beds but was named and described in 1995 by Accarie, Beaudoin, Dejax, Fries, Michard, and Taquet.

The genus name is derived from the Latin word 'genu', which means knee. This unique name refers to the crest this genus has on top of the tibia. In 1995, the group of paleontologists led by Accarie classified this dinosaur to be a theropod, while in 2008, they were classified to be a part of Noasauridae.

The latest studies place this dinosaur in the Abelisauridae family. Keep reading for more amazing facts about the Genusaurus!

Genusaurus Interesting Facts

How do you pronounce 'Genusaurus'?

It is quite easy to pronounce Genusaurus once you break down the words into smaller parts - 'Gen-oo-sau-rus'.

What type of dinosaur was a Genusaurus?

There is confusion regarding Genusaurus and its typification. The most recent studies show that Genusaurus is a member of the Abelisauridae family of ceratosaurian theropod dinosaurs.

In which geological period did the Genusaurus roam the Earth?

The Genusaurus roamed the Earth during the Early Cretaceous age - particularly during the Albian stage.

When did the Genusaurus become extinct?

The Genusaurus is thought to have been living during the Albian Stage of the Lower Cretaceous, which lasted in the temporal range of 112 - 100 million years ago. Thus, we can assume that the Genusaurus also went extinct at that point.

Where did Genusaurus live?

The Genusarus lived in present-day Western Europe as its fossils have been found in a site named Vaucluse in France.

What was the Genusaurus' habitat?

It can be guessed that it preferred a terrestrial habitat in a temperate climate, based on the site of the discovery of fossils.

Who did the Genusaurus live with?

Since only one fossil specimen of the Genusaurus has been found so far, paleontologists cannot determine if this theropod dinosaur lived alone or in collective groups.

How long did a Genusaurus live?

The exact lifespan of this dinosaur has not been calculated.

How did they reproduce?

The Genusaurus dinosaurs reproduced by laying eggs after the fertilization process was complete.

Genusaurus Fun Facts

What did the Genusaurus look like?

The Genusaurus has a shorter body but a long, narrow tail. In addition to that, its neck is also short compared to its elongated face. The forelimbs of this genus are quite short, and it is known to be bipedal in nature. Thus, it has a strongly fused pelvis with slender but strong legs.

How many bones did a Genusaurus have?

Multiple elements of this genus were found in France to create a partial skeleton. Paleontologists found pieces of the dorsal vertebrae, sacral, ilium, top of the pubic bone, shin bone, thigh bone, metatarsal, and fibula.

How did they communicate?

While it is not known how these dinosaurs communicated with each other, it has been noted that this dinosaur had a sophisticated auditory system that allowed it to detect auditory signals.

How big was the Genusaurus?

It has not been possible for paleontologists to determine the size of the Genusaurus based on the fossils that have been found in the discovery site.

How fast could a Genusaurus move?

Paleontologists have noted that the Genusaurs were quite mobile and could move spontaneously from one place to another because of their well-developed and strong legs.

How much did a Genusaurus weigh?

The approximate weight of this genus cannot be determined due to a lack of adequate information.

What were the male and female names of the species?

There are no unique names to refer to a male or female creature of this species. Thus, they are denoted as male or female Genusaurus.

What would you call a baby Genusaurus?

There is no separate name for a baby Genusaurus. Therefore, it is usually referred to as a nestling or hatchling following standard terminology.

How aggressive were they?

These dinosaurs were quite aggressive since they were carnivorous in nature and had to hunt down their prey for food.

Did You Know…

The specific name of the type species Genusaurus sisteronis refers to the town Sisteron in France near which the fossils were discovered for the first time.

*We've been unable to source an image of Genusaurs and have used an image of Avaceratops instead. If you are able to provide us with a royalty-free image of Genusaurs, we would be happy to credit you. Please contact us at hello@kidadl.com.

*We've been unable to source an image of Genusaurs and have used an image of Ankylosaurus instead. If you are able to provide us with a royalty-free image of Genusaurs, we would be happy to credit you. Please contact us at hello@kidadl.com.

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Sources

https://dinopedia.fandom.com/wiki/Genusaurus

https://eol.org/pages/4533730

https://www.encyclo.co.uk/meaning-of-Genusaurus

https://dinosaurpictures.org/Genusaurus-pictures

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Written by Akinwalere Olaleye

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

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Akinwalere OlaleyeBachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

As a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and energetic individual, Olaleye's expertise lies in administrative and management operations. With extensive knowledge as an Editor and Communications Analyst, Olaleye excels in editing, writing, and media relations. Her commitment to upholding professional ethics and driving organizational growth sets her apart. She has a bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of Benin, Edo State. 

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Fact-checked by Sakshi Raturi

Postgraduate Diploma in Management

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Sakshi RaturiPostgraduate Diploma in Management

Sakshi has experience in marketing strategy, social media planning, and recruiting industry experts for capstone projects, she has displayed a commitment to enhancing their skills and knowledge. She has won multiple awards, including a Certificate of Appreciation for Creative Writing and a Certificate of Merit for Immaculate Turut, and is always seeking new opportunities to grow and develop.

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