The Brontosaurus is a well-known dinosaur that lived during the Late Jurassic period, around 154 to 150 million years ago. Its name means ‘thunder lizard’ and was first discovered in the late 19th century. Characterized by its long neck, massive body, and long tail, it could reach lengths of over 70 feet, making it one of the largest land animals to have ever existed.
Brontosaurus was an herbivore, primarily feeding on plants found in its environment, such as ferns and cycads. Its long neck allowed it to reach high vegetation, providing it with access to food that many other herbivores couldn’t reach.
For many years, the Brontosaurus was thought to be the same species as Apatosaurus, leading to much confusion in the paleontological community. However, in a significant 2015 study, researchers gathered more evidence to support its separation as a distinct genus. Despite this, the Brontosaurus often remains a symbol of dinosaurs in popular culture, appearing in countless movies, books, and educational materials.