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Diplodocus
Click here for more Diplodocus Pictures
Diplodocus was a massive plant-eater (herbivore) that lived in the
Jurassic period,
155 to 145 million years ago, in North America.
Diplodocus was usually around 85 feet (25.9 meters) long, although some specimens were
as long as 100 feet (30.5 meters).
Most of its length was taken up its 24 feet (7.3 meters) neck, and its 46 feet (14 meters)
tail. Its body was only about 13 feet (4 meters) long, and its head was comparatively
tiny, just 2 feet (60 centimeters) long.
Diplodocus probably only weighed around 11 tons, about one third as much
as Apatosaurus, and only
about one eighth as much as
Brachiosaurus.
The first
fossil
skeleton of Diplodocus was found at Como Bluff,
Wyoming
by Benjamin Mudge and Samuel Wendell Williston in 1878. This specimen was
named Diplodocus longus (meaning "long double-beam")
by
Othniel C. Marsh.
Fossils of
Diplodocus are common, and many other specimens have been found, except
for the skull which is usually missing, even from otherwise complete
skeletons.
Over the years, there has been much debate over Diplodocus' posture
and lifestyle:
- Othniel C. Marsh,
originally suggested the creature was probably aquatic based on the position
of the animal's nasal openings in the skull. However, this theory
has subsequently been discarded based on the fact that the water pressure on
the animal's chest wall would have made it impossible for Diplodocus
to breathe.
- An alternative explanation for the position of the nasal openings that
has been proposed, is that Diplodocus may have had a trunk. However,
research regarding the animal's facial nerve and positioning of Diplodocus'
nostrils does not seem to support this theory.
- When Diplodocus was first discovered, it was often depicted with its
limbs splayed in a sprawling lizard-like posture. This theory was also rejected:
in this case, W. J. Holland demonstrated, that because of the great
size of the animal's rib cage, a sprawling posture would have meant that
the animal could only walk with the help of large trenches to pull its
belly through!
- Although many depictions of Diplodocus show the animal with its head
up high, some scientists now argue that such a posture would not have been
possible, simply because the heart would not have been able to sustain the
blood pressure necessary to get enough oxygen to the brain. Additionally, in
further support of this position, it has been argued that the structure of
Diplodocus' neck vertebrae would not have permitted the animal to bend
its neck far upwards.
- Evidence has recently been found, suggesting
that Diplodocus and its relatives may have had
spines made of keratin on its back, perhaps similar to
the spines found on modern Iguanas.
Diplodocus is depicted with this feature in
Walking with Dinosaurs.

Diplodocus was a herbivore (plant-eater) that lived from 155 to 145 million years ago

Related Information & Resources
See Also

Diplodocus Facts
Here is a summary of some of the key facts about Diplodocus:
- Diplodocus was a genus of dinosaur.
- "Diplodocus" means "double beam" (referring to double-beamed bones in the underside of its tail). The name was chosen by Othniel C. Marsh in 1878.
- Diplodocus was a member of the Saurischia ("lizard-hipped") order of dinosaurs. What this means, is that although Diplodocus was not closely related to lizards, it did have similarly shaped pelvic bones.
- Diplodocus was a Sauropod - a member of a group of related large quadrupedal herbivorous (plant-eating) dinosaur with long necks.
- Diplodocus lived between about 155 million years ago and 145 million years ago, during the Jurassic period.
- Diplodocus lived in North America.
- Diplodocus was a herbivore (plant-eater).
- Diplodocus is thought to have been a grazer, and probably could not have raised its head very far above the ground level.
- Diplodocus was usually about 85 feet (25.9 meters) long, although sometimes it grew as long as 100 feet (30.5 meters).
- Diplodocus weighed about 11 tons.
Diplodocus Pictures and Posters
by AllPosters
Here are some Diplodocus pictures and posters:
(Disclosure: Products details and descriptions provided by AllPosters. Our company may receive a payment if you purchase products from them after following a link from this website).
Diplodocus Toys Here are some toys/games from Amazon.com:
Disclosure: Products details and descriptions provided by Amazon.com. Our company may receive a payment if you purchase products from them after following a link from this website.
Safari Toy
 | List Price: $34.00* Lowest New Price: $29.99* Usually ships in 2 to 3 weeks* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - These award winning dinosaur replicas are authenticated by the paleontologists of the Carnegie museum of natural history, who houses the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the world
- The scale of these dinos are 1:20 -1:40
- All our products are phthalate-free and thoroughly safety tested to safeguard your child's health
Product Description: The worlds premier line of collectible dinosaur replicas. This replica has been researched and authenticated by the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Intricately detailed, hand-painted and phthalate free. Each replica comes with 5 language educational information. Carnegie Dinosaur Collectibles Diplodocus Replica Size: 23" L x 6" H Age 3+ |
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Safari Released: 2007-07-01 Toy
 | List Price: $29.99* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - Hand painted collectible dinosaur replicas
- Measures 24"
- Authentically detailed and intricately hand-finished with paint exceeding US and European lead safety standards.
Product Description: Part of the Safari Ltd. Carnegie Museum Dinosaur collection, replicas researched and authenticated by the paleontologists of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Each is either 1:20 or 1:40 scale. This Diplodocus replica measures 24 inches long, 9 inches high. Scale 1:40 |
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Wild Republic Toy
 | List Price: $34.00* Lowest New Price: $23.96* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - Licensed by the Natural History Museum!
- Box size is approximately 20x14x3 inches
Product Description: The fun will be endless with these highly detailed, museum quality, replicas of your favorite dinosaurs. You'll be back in the time when dinosaurs ruled the earth. These eight figures will give any dinosaur lover, hours of imaginitive play. Licensed by the Natural History Muesum of London 8 figures |
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K & M Toy
 | Lowest New Price: $16.88* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: Great for kids. These items are not only toys, but an educational series of replicas that reveals the prehistoric world. These toys are licensed under the Natural History Museum. Kids will play for hours with these adorable and soft plush dinsoaurs. These |
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Wild Republic Toy
 | Lowest New Price: $4.95* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: Children will enjoy playing with this Diplodocus. This Diplodocus provides hours of pretend play and fun. |
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E-Toysworld Toy
 | Lowest New Price: $30.09* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - Real Dinosaur sound when dinosaur is moving
- Walking Dinosaur legs
- Recommended Age: Age 3+
Product Description: Go back into time when dinosaurs ruled the world! The Dinosaur Diplodocus comes back to life pre-assembled. This dinosaur is remote controlled and easy to use. When it walks it makes sounds and moves its head. It comes with a 3-functional radio controller. This new hot item is waiting for you so order now! |
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Safari Toy
 | Lowest New Price: $45.54* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - Made with the Best Quality Material with your child in mind.
Product Description: For over 25 years, Safari Ltd has been proud to provide this premier line of scale model, dinosaur collectibles. These award winning dinosaur replicas are authenticated by the paleontologists of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, who houses the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the world. Each Carnegie dinosaur can have up to 25 steps of hand painting to ensure the highest quality in the world marketplace. The scale of these dinos are either 1:20 or 1:40. Detailed educational information in 5 languages are provided with each replica. All our products are phthalate-free and thoroughly safety tested to safeguard your child's health. Safari Ltd takes pride in providing breathtaking, innovative and value priced figures for now over 3 generations. Each January, Safari Ltd introduces 2 new Carnegie models to encourage the collectibility of such an intriguing line. Featured is our Carnegie Collection Diplodocus Size: 23" L x 6" H (58.5 x 15 cm). Suggested age 3 and up |
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Wild Republic Released: 2007-10-01 Toy
 | Lowest New Price: $13.49* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - Licensed by the Natural History Museum and approved by NHM Paleontologists.
- Truly Realistic Dinosuar lets kids learn and they play.
Product Description: These stuffed animals have realistically adorable faces, highly detailed designs and quality fabric. |
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Diplodocus Books Here are some books from Amazon.com:
Disclosure: Products details and descriptions provided by Amazon.com. Our company may receive a payment if you purchase products from them after following a link from this website.
By Rex Stone
Scholastic Paperbacks Mass Market Paperback (80 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $4.99* Lowest New Price: $1.87* Lowest Used Price: $1.77* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - ISBN13: 9780545112475
- Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
Product Description: Tom and Jamie can't believe their luck when they find a secret entrance to a prehistoric world filled with dinosaurs! They vow to have a new adventure every day. |
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By Rex Stone
Scholastic Paperbacks Mass Market Paperback (80 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $4.99* Lowest New Price: $1.87* Lowest Used Price: $1.77* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - ISBN13: 9780545112475
- Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
Product Description: Tom and Jamie can't believe their luck when they find a secret entrance to a prehistoric world filled with dinosaurs! They vow to have a new adventure every day. |
|
By Riehecky
Capstone Press Paperback (24 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $6.75* Lowest New Price: $4.96* Lowest Used Price: $4.11* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: Text and illustrations present the life of the dinosaur known as the diplodocus. Includes information on how this prehistoric animal looked, along with its behavior. |
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By Riehecky
Capstone Press Paperback (24 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $6.75* Lowest New Price: $4.96* Lowest Used Price: $4.11* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: Text and illustrations present the life of the dinosaur known as the diplodocus. Includes information on how this prehistoric animal looked, along with its behavior. |
|
By Rob Shone
Rosen Publishing Group Paperback (32 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $12.30* Lowest New Price: $12.30* Lowest Used Price: $11.68* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here |
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By Rob Shone
Rosen Publishing Group Paperback (32 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $12.30* Lowest New Price: $12.30* Lowest Used Price: $11.68* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here |
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By Karen Wallace
Hodder & Stoughton Hardcover (28 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $16.99* Lowest New Price: $4.85* Lowest Used Price: $4.98* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: Follow a young Diplodocus searching for food in the forest. See a sharp-toothed Allosaurus attacked as she eats. Watch the herd rush to save her! Will they reach her in time? |
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By Karen Wallace
Hodder & Stoughton Hardcover (28 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $16.99* Lowest New Price: $4.85* Lowest Used Price: $4.98* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: Follow a young Diplodocus searching for food in the forest. See a sharp-toothed Allosaurus attacked as she eats. Watch the herd rush to save her! Will they reach her in time? |
|
By Scott E. Sutton
Action Publishing (Glendale, CA) Paperback (125 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $5.99* Lowest New Price: $2.90* Lowest Used Price: $1.92* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - ISBN13: 9781888045529
- Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
Product Description: In book 2 of The Adventures of Dinosaur Dog, Banjo and Lee travel back in time to rescue a young Diplodcus from ferocious carnivors. Can they find the Diplodicus herd in time to save the Dinky Diplodicus and return to their own time? With Dino on the trail and a little help from a new ally, they may have a chance. |
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By Scott E. Sutton
Action Publishing (Glendale, CA) Paperback (125 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $5.99* Lowest New Price: $2.90* Lowest Used Price: $1.92* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | - ISBN13: 9781888045529
- Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
Product Description: In book 2 of The Adventures of Dinosaur Dog, Banjo and Lee travel back in time to rescue a young Diplodcus from ferocious carnivors. Can they find the Diplodicus herd in time to save the Dinky Diplodicus and return to their own time? With Dino on the trail and a little help from a new ally, they may have a chance. |
|
Child's Play International Board book (12 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $4.99* Lowest New Price: $2.49* Lowest Used Price: $0.99* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: This title comes in sturdy, shaped board for small hands. It is an early information book and has some amazing facts about a diplodocus. |
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Child's Play International Board book (12 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $4.99* Lowest New Price: $2.49* Lowest Used Price: $0.99* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: This title comes in sturdy, shaped board for small hands. It is an early information book and has some amazing facts about a diplodocus. |
|
By Michael William Skrepnick
Enslow Elementary Library Binding (24 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $21.26* Lowest New Price: $17.85* Lowest Used Price: $0.73* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here |
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By Michael William Skrepnick
Enslow Elementary Library Binding (24 pages; 1)
 | List Price: $21.26* Lowest New Price: $17.85* Lowest Used Price: $0.73* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here |
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By Graham Coleman
Weekly Reader Books Hardcover
 | Lowest Used Price: $25.00* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: Crestaceous Period: Baryonyx, Chasmosaurus, Gallimimus, Maiasaura, Triceratops, Pachycephalosaurus, Psittacosaurusm - Jurassic: Brachiosaurus, Diplodocus, Megalosaurus, Pterodactylus, Steogosaurus, Vulcanodon - Triassic: Coelophysis |
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By Graham Coleman
Weekly Reader Books Hardcover
 | Lowest Used Price: $25.00* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here | Product Description: Crestaceous Period: Baryonyx, Chasmosaurus, Gallimimus, Maiasaura, Triceratops, Pachycephalosaurus, Psittacosaurusm - Jurassic: Brachiosaurus, Diplodocus, Megalosaurus, Pterodactylus, Steogosaurus, Vulcanodon - Triassic: Coelophysis |
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By Marc-Edouard Burgard
La Table ronde Paperback (234 pages)
| Lowest Used Price: $79.00* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here |
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By Marc-Edouard Burgard
La Table ronde Paperback (234 pages)
| Lowest Used Price: $79.00* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here |
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By Joanne Mattern
Weekly Reader Early Learning Library Paperback (24 pages; 1)
| List Price: $7.00* Lowest New Price: $6.48* Lowest Used Price: $10.52* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here |
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By Joanne Mattern
Weekly Reader Early Learning Library Paperback (24 pages; 1)
| List Price: $7.00* Lowest New Price: $6.48* Lowest Used Price: $10.52* Usually ships in 24 hours* *(As of 01:23 Pacific 13 Mar 2010 More Info)
Click Here |
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