Centrosaurus

Horns, or elaborate frills, such as those on this Centrosaurus, characterize the group of dinosaurs known as Ceratopsians.

Ceratopsians, or horned dinosaurs, were among the last dinosaur groups to evolve. Large and powerful, they may have ranged in herd across the North American interior. Their great variety of horns and neck frills may have protected them from predators but may also have been used to threaten rivals of their own species.

Centrosaurus was a powerful ceratopsian with a single long horn on its nose, and a short frill which stood up behind the neck. Like Chasmosaurus, the frill was not solid bone; two large openings on either side reduced the weight considerably, and provided edges for powerful jaw muscles to be attached.

Centrosaurus may have lived in herds for protection from predators such as Albertosaurus. In Dinosaur Provincial Park, the remains of more then 50 individuals have been found in a single site.

This document was prepared by Wayne Hortensius, Calgary, Alberta, Canada for the Royal Tyrrell Museum Cooperating Society. All information © 1995 Royal Tyrrell Museum. All Rights Reserved.
Updated: April 8, 1995

Comments, questions, suggestions?