Dominant predator of the Cretaceous in the southern hemisphere. Found in South America.
Short snout for a carnivore, very reduced forelimbs.
Its scientific name means carnivorous bull. This is due to the “horns” above the eyes. No doubt covered with keratin, they must have been longer.
These “horns” were probably used for fighting in order to access reproduction. The thick skull indicates that they could also headbutt each other.
Its fossil showed traces of skin. It had fine scales as well as some large round scales on the top of its body.
Small carnassial teeth, eye sockets quite forward on the skull indicating good perception of depth and distances, short jaw indicating great speed and a large, muscular neck. All of this suggests it likely ambushed large prey. Quick, effective attacks.
These powerful hind legs indicate that it was a very good sprinter.