**Amygdalodon**
Amygdalodon is an extinct type of dinosaur that lived during the Middle Jurassic period, around 180 to 172 million years ago. It is known from fossils found in Argentina.
The name “Amygdalodon” means “almond tooth,” which comes from the shape of its teeth.
**Fossils and Discovery**
The remains of Amygdalodon were first discovered in 1936. The main fossil, known as the holotype, includes parts of its backbone, ribs, several teeth, and fragments of its pelvis and shoulder blade.
This dinosaur was initially described by a scientist named Cabrera in 1947. Before the discovery of Amygdalodon, no sauropod dinosaur fossils were found in Argentina.
**Size and Appearance**
Estimates suggest that Amygdalodon grew about 12 meters long, which is around 39 feet. It was about 4 meters tall, about the same height as a tall room. It likely weighed over 5 tonnes.
Amygdalodon walked on all four legs and was a type of herbivore, meaning it ate plants.
**Classification**
Scientists have studied and classified Amygdalodon within a group of dinosaurs called sauropods. These dinosaurs are known for their long necks and tails.
Research suggests that Amygdalodon was a basic or early type of sauropod, showing some features that later sauropods would develop. The study of its teeth indicates it could eat larger amounts of plants, a trait that would become important for future sauropods.
In more recent studies, scientists have linked Amygdalodon with other early dinosaurs from Asia and South America, helping to understand the evolution of these amazing creatures.
In summary, Amygdalodon was an important dinosaur that lived millions of years ago and helps scientists learn more about the history of dinosaurs in South America.