Carcharodontosaurus, whose name translates to “shark-toothed lizard,” was one of the largest terrestrial predators, living during the mid-Cretaceous period (100 to 94 million years ago). Estimates suggest this immense theropod reached lengths of up to 13.7 meters (45 feet) and weighed between 6 and 8 metric tons. Its size positioned it as the apex predator in its ecosystem, requiring substantial sources of meat.
Anatomical Evidence of a Hunter
The skull structure provides the clearest evidence of its carnivorous habits. Its skull was impressively long, measuring about 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) in the largest specimens, but it was lightly built and narrow compared to other giant carnivores. This architecture suggests it was not designed for the massive, bone-crushing bite forces seen in later predators.
Instead, the dinosaur relied on its namesake dentition. Its jaws were lined with sharp, serrated, blade-like teeth, which could grow up to 20 centimeters (8 inches) long. These teeth were adapted for slicing through flesh rather than pulverizing bone.
Fossil analysis indicates Carcharodontosaurus possessed enlarged cervical vertebrae, which anchored powerful neck muscles. This muscular structure would have been crucial for pulling and tearing meat from a carcass, compensating for the relatively weaker bite force.
The North African Cretaceous Menu
The diet of Carcharodontosaurus is determined by examining the diverse fauna of the Kem Kem beds in North Africa, where its fossils were found. This region, spanning modern-day Morocco and Algeria, was a lush, humid environment during the Cenomanian age, supporting a rich assembly of megafauna. The massive herbivorous dinosaurs coexisting in the region formed the primary basis of its diet.
Key among these were large sauropods, the long-necked giants like Rebbachisaurus. Other large herbivores included titanosaurs such as Paralititan, which were also present. While it shared the ecosystem with other large theropods, like Spinosaurus which specialized in aquatic prey, Carcharodontosaurus was a dedicated terrestrial hunter focused on the largest land-dwelling animals.
Predation Strategy and Feeding Style
The unique anatomy of Carcharodontosaurus points toward a distinctive “slash and tear” hunting strategy. Rather than delivering a single, bone-shattering bite, the dinosaur used its razor-sharp teeth to inflict deep, grievous wounds. This approach is often described as a “hit and run” tactic.
The predator would rush in, deliver a massive slicing bite to the flanks or limbs of its prey, and then retreat to allow the injury to take effect. The massive wounds would lead to significant blood loss and shock, eventually incapacitating the large herbivore. Once the prey was down, the powerful neck muscles would facilitate tearing large chunks of flesh from the carcass.