Coelophysis kayentakatae is an extinct dinosaur that lived around 200 to 196 million years ago during the Early Jurassic Period. It roamed what is now the southwestern United States.
This dinosaur was first named Syntarsus kayentakatae but had to change names because “Syntarsus” was already used for a type of beetle. Later, it was called Megapnosaurus and then moved to the Coelophysis genus. In 2022, scientists suggested that it might need a new name once again.
**Discovery**
The first fossil of Coelophysis kayentakatae was found in the Kayenta Formation in Arizona. This site is known for its rich deposits from the Jurassic Period. It was uncovered in 1977, and another specimen was found in 1982. The name “kayentakatae” pays tribute to Dr. Kathleen Smith, known as “Kayenta Kay,” for her contributions to the study of the Kayenta Formation.
**Description**
Coelophysis kayentakatae was a relatively small dinosaur, measuring about 8.2 feet long and weighing around 66 pounds. It had two small crests on its head, which might be an early sign of features seen in bigger dinosaurs like Dilophosaurus.
Characteristics that differentiate it from other dinosaurs include the presence of these nasal crests and unique features in its skull bones.
**Classification**
Initially included in the genus Syntarsus, this dinosaur had to be renamed due to naming conflicts. In 2001, it became known as Megapnosaurus, but later associations led to it being classified under Coelophysis. Recent studies have questioned how closely related it is to these other genera.
**Paleoecology**
During the Early Jurassic, the area where Coelophysis kayentakatae lived had a climate with wet summers and dry winters. It shared its environment with several other dinosaurs and various animals like fish, turtles, and early mammals. The Kayenta Formation has revealed a rich mix of life, including both dinosaurs and smaller creatures.
**Taphonomy**
The original fossil of Coelophysis kayentakatae was found in a position that suggested it was partially buried, which helped preserve some of its bones. However, the position and pressure from sediment above distorted the dinosaur’s skull over time.
In summary, Coelophysis kayentakatae represents an important slice of dinosaur history, helping us understand the diversity and evolution of early theropods.