World of Dinosaurs/Coelophysis

Basics
Coelophysis means "Hollow Form".

Coelophysis lived during the Triassic Period.

Anatomy

 * Long slender skull
 * Stands on elongated toes
 * reduction in number of digits
 * Upright stance on rear legs
 * long neck and tail

Phylogeny
Coelophysis is a theropod.

All theropods are dinosaurs.

All dinosaurs are amniotes and all dinosaurs are tetrapods.

Biomechanics
Coelophysis jaws act much like a lever, making it more suited for a slashing motion.

Fossil Record
Coelophysis are mainly found in New Mexico.

Ecology
Coelophysis lived in an environment with fish, based on remains found in fossilized stomachs.

Grasses and flowers had not evolved yet.

Biogeography
Coelophysis most likely lived in a dry, desert-like environment.