The Open Geology Journal

2012, 6 : 65-71
Published online 2012 September 20. DOI: 10.2174/1874262901206010065
Publisher ID: TOGEOJ-6-65

Comparison of the Functional Morphology of

Tamie J. Jovanelly and Lesley Lane
Department of Physics, Astronomy, Geology, Berry College, 2277 Martha Berry Hwy, Mount Berry, GA 30149, USA.

ABSTRACT

In order to assess how similar Appalachiosaurus and Albertosaurus libratus are, their functional morphology was compared with emphasis on bite force, velocity, dentition, and skull construction with implication on possible feeding behaviors. It was found that despite their skeletal similarities and velocities, they likely filled two different ecological niches which may or may not have influenced a possible retention of basal features in Appalachiosaurus.

Keywords:

Appalachiosaurus, Albertasaurus, Alabama dinosaurs.