Supersonic sauropods? Tail dynamics in the diplodocids
- 1 January 1997
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Cambridge University Press (CUP) in Paleobiology
- Vol. 23 (4), 393-409
- https://doi.org/10.1017/s0094837300019801
Abstract
Computer models of the tail ofApatosaurus louisaeshow it could reach supersonic velocities, producing a noise analogous to the “crack” of a bullwhip. Similarity in tail structure suggests this was feasible for other diplodocids, and possibly for unrelated sauropods likeMamenchisaurusand the dicraeosaurids. Lengthening of caudal vertebrae centra between positions 18 and 25 is consistent with adaptation to the stresses generated by such tail motion, as is coossification of vertebrae via diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), which occurs in the same region in about half the specimens. The noise produced may have been used for defense, communication, intraspecific rivalry, or courtship, in which case supersonic “cracking” may have been a sexually dimorphic feature. Comparisons with the club-bearing tails of the sauropodsShunosaurus liiandOmeisaurus tianfuensisshow the diplodocid whiplash tail was not well adapted as a direct-impact weapon, bringing the tail-as-weapon hypothesis into doubt.Keywords
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