Ceratopsians, belonging to the clade Ceratopsia, are a distinctive group of herbivorous dinosaurs recognized for their beaked mouths, ornate frills, and often prominent facial horns. They flourished primarily during the Cretaceous period, leaving behind fossils that trace their evolution from small, primitive forms to some of the most iconic and heavily armored herbivores, like Triceratops.
- Ceratopsians are part of the Ornithischia ("bird-hipped") dinosaur group.
- They evolved characteristic features for feeding and defense: a parrot-like beak, dental batteries, and elaborate skull adornments.
- Their fossil record extends mainly through the Late Cretaceous, with some early forms appearing in the Jurassic.
Distinctive features of ceratopsians include beaked mouths, frills, and facial horns.
Ceratopsians are classified within the Ornithischia.
Source Material
Author: American Museum of Natural History
Document: Ceratopsia
Date Published: 2024-06