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Iguanodon

Herbivorous dinosaur from the Early Cretaceous period.

Iguanodons

A genus of herbivorous dinosaur from the Early Cretaceous period. Known for its thumb spike, Iguanodon was one of the first dinosaurs to be scientifically described and initially mistaken for a lizard.

Etymology

Iguanodon is derived from the Greek words 'iguania' (iguana) and 'odon' (tooth), referring to its iguana-like teeth.

Explain Like I’m 5

Iguanodon was a plant-eating dinosaur that lived during the Early Cretaceous period, known for its thumb spikes and possible social behavior.

Fun Facts

Iguanodon fossils were discovered in England in 1822, sparking a 'bone war' with Gideon Mantell
They may have lived in herds and communicated using head-butting displays
Some Iguanodon fossils show evidence of arthritis

FAQ

What does Iguanodon mean? Meaning 'iguana tooth', named for its teeth resembling an iguana
When did Iguanodon live? During the Early Cretaceous period, roughly 135 to 201 million years ago
What did Iguanodon eat? It was an herbivore, eating plants like ferns and cycads

Hypernyms — Broader Categories

dinosaur herbivore

Holonyms — Wholes or Groups

Ornithopoda

Indexes

dinosaur extinct natural object prehistoric animal

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