Arackar is an exciting dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous period, which existed about 83.6 to 66 million years ago. This dinosaur was discovered in Chile, specifically in the Hornitos Formation.
The name “Arackar” means “skeleton” in the ancient Kunza language. It belongs to a family of dinosaurs known as sauropods, which were large, long-necked herbivores. Arackar is thought to be related to a group called Saltasauridae.
In 1993, the first fossils of Arackar were found. These fossils were discovered in a place called Quebrada La Higuera. Scientists studied these remains and learned more about this dinosaur in 2021. The species name for Arackar is Arackar licanantay, which translates to “bones of the Atacamans.”
The fossils of Arackar were quite special. They included parts of the neck and back, as well as bones from its arms and legs. The remains were from a juvenile dinosaur, meaning it was still growing. This dinosaur was about 6.3 meters long, which is roughly 21 feet. However, scientists are not sure how big a fully grown Arackar would have been.
Researchers found several unique features in the fossils of Arackar. For example, the shape of its vertebrae (the bones that make up its spine) had some interesting characteristics, which helped scientists understand where it fit in the family tree of dinosaurs.
Arackar is classified within the Titanosauria group. This group includes other giant dinosaurs, making it part of a family of massive, long-necked creatures that roamed the Earth millions of years ago.
Overall, Arackar licanantay is a fascinating dinosaur that adds to our understanding of the diversity of life during the Late Cretaceous period. With continuous discoveries, we keep learning more about these incredible ancient creatures.