| Scientific Name | Iguanodon bernissartensis |
| Common Name | Iguanodon |
| Classification | Dinosaur, Ornithopod |
| Timeline | Early Cretaceous Period |
| Location and time of first discovery | Bernissart, Belgium; first discovered in 1878 |
| Estimated Size | Varied depending on species, but generally around 10 meters (33 feet) in length and weighing up to 4.5 tonnes (5 tons) |
| Diet | Herbivorous, feeding on plants such as ferns, horsetails, and cycads |
| Highlights | Known for its distinctive thumb spike, resembling that of a modern iguana, and its ability to walk on both two and four legs |
| Behavioral Facts | Iguanodon likely traveled in herds for protection against predators and may have used its thumb spike for defense or foraging |
| Significance | Iguanodon was one of the first dinosaurs to be scientifically described and played a significant role in shaping our understanding of prehistoric life. It was once thought to be a quadrupedal animal, but later discoveries suggested it was capable of both bipedal and quadrupedal locomotion. |
Discovery and Timeline
Iguanodon, the iconic herbivore of the Early Cretaceous period. It roamed the ancient landscapes of Europe approximately 125 to 113 million years ago. Its first fossilized discovery was in the early 19th century. This also marked a significant breakthrough in our understanding of dinosaur diversity and evolution.
Iguanodon Size and Physical Attributes
Despite its herbivorous nature, Iguanodon was a sizable dinosaur. It could reach lengths of up to 10 meters (33 feet) and weighed several metric tons. Its most distinctive feature was its thumb spike, which it likely used for defense against predators and manipulation of vegetation. With its stout body and powerful limbs, Iguanodon was also well-adapted to its environment.
Diet and Feeding Habits
As a herbivore, Iguanodon subsisted on a diet primarily composed of ferns, cycads, and other low-lying vegetation abundant in its ancient habitat. In addition to that, its broad, toothed jaws were ideal for cropping and grinding plant material. Finally, this allowed it to efficiently extract nutrients from tough vegetation.
Behavior and Social Dynamics
While much about Iguanodon’s behavior remains speculative, evidence suggests that it may have lived in herds or small groups for protection and social interaction. Therefore, its large size and formidable thumb spike may have served as deterrents against predators. This allowed it to thrive in its ecosystem.
Iguanodon Significance and Legacy
Iguanodon holds a special place in the history of paleontology. Its discovery revolutionized our understanding of prehistoric life and laid the foundation for future research into dinosaur biology and evolution. Through ongoing discoveries and advancements in technology, we continue to unravel the mysteries of Iguanodon, preserving its legacy as a symbol of the ancient world.