Archaeodontosaurus is a fascinating dinosaur that lived during the Middle Jurassic period, around 168 to 165 million years ago.
Its fossils have been discovered in Madagascar, specifically in a place called the Isalo III Formation.
The name “Archaeodontosaurus” means “ancient-toothed lizard.” This dinosaur is considered a sauropod, which means it belongs to a group of long-necked dinosaurs known for their large size.
The only known species of Archaeodontosaurus is called Archaeodontosaurus descouensi. This species was named in September 2005, and it honors a collector named Didier Descouens, who helped find its fossils.
Archaeodontosaurus had teeth that were similar to those of earlier dinosaurs called prosauropods. This means it likely had a diet consisting of plants.
Scientists believe that Archaeodontosaurus might be one of the earliest members of a larger group known as Gravisauria, which includes many well-known sauropods.
In summary, Archaeodontosaurus is an important dinosaur that helps scientists understand the history and evolution of big, plant-eating dinosaurs.