Tulrampator

Tulrampator

Skeletal reconstruction of Tulrampator

Tulrampator is a genus of dromaeosaurid theropod dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous period. It was discovered in the Bayan Shireh Formation of Mongolia. The genus was named and described in 2017 by paleontologists Alexander Averianov and Hans-Dieter Sues.

Discovery and Naming

The remains of Tulrampator were first discovered during a series of expeditions to the Bayan Shireh Formation, which is known for its rich fossil deposits. The genus name Tulrampator is derived from the Mongolian word "tul", meaning "swift", and the Latin "raptor", meaning "thief". The specific name honors the locality where the fossils were found.

Description

Tulrampator was a small, agile predator, estimated to have been about 2 meters in length. Like other dromaeosaurids, it possessed a sickle-shaped claw on each foot, which was likely used for hunting prey. The skeletal structure suggests it was a fast runner, adapted for a predatory lifestyle.

Paleobiology

As a member of the dromaeosaurid family, Tulrampator was likely a carnivorous dinosaur, preying on small vertebrates. Its physical adaptations, such as the sickle claw and lightweight build, suggest it was an active hunter. The environment of the Bayan Shireh Formation during the Late Cretaceous was a semi-arid region with seasonal rainfall, providing a diverse ecosystem for Tulrampator to thrive in.

Paleoenvironment

The Bayan Shireh Formation, where Tulrampator was discovered, dates back to the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 90 million years ago. This formation is characterized by fluvial and lacustrine deposits, indicating the presence of rivers and lakes. The climate was likely warm and semi-arid, supporting a variety of plant and animal life.

Related Pages

• Dromaeosauridae
• Theropoda
• Cretaceous
• Bayan Shireh Formation

References

• Averianov, A. O., & Sues, H.-D. (2017). "A new dromaeosaurid theropod dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous of Mongolia." *Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology*, 37(3), e1312690.
• Turner, A. H., Makovicky, P. J., & Norell, M. A. (2007). "Feather quill knobs in the dinosaur Velociraptor." *Science*, 317(5845), 1721.