Dilophosaurus, a striking theropod, roamed North America approximately 193 to 184 million years ago during the Early Jurassic period. Recognized by its distinctive double crests, this dinosaur was one of the larger predators of its time, reaching lengths of about 7 meters (23 feet) and weighing around 400 kilograms (880 pounds). Understanding the diet of Dilophosaurus offers insight into Early Jurassic ecosystems and the feeding strategies of early large carnivorous dinosaurs.
Anatomical Clues to Its Diet
The skull and teeth of Dilophosaurus provide clues about its diet. Its narrow snout featured a noticeable kink, or subnarial gap, in the upper jaw. This unique jaw structure was a subject of scientific discussion regarding its bite force.
Early interpretations suggested this gap indicated a relatively weak bite, leading some to propose Dilophosaurus was primarily a scavenger or hunted only smaller prey. However, recent biomechanical analyses indicate Dilophosaurus possessed a stronger bite than initially thought. Its jaws, particularly the front, were capable of withstanding considerable stress, suggesting it could effectively capture and manipulate prey.
Its teeth were long, curved, thin, and serrated, well-suited for slicing through flesh and tearing meat, not for crushing bone. The arrangement of its teeth, with larger ones further back, suggests a strategy of delivering slashing bites to wound prey, then securing it with the front of the jaw.
What We Believe It Ate
Scientists hypothesize Dilophosaurus was an active predator, consuming a variety of animals. Prey in its Early Jurassic environment likely included smaller dinosaurs, such as early ornithischians or prosauropods, as well as other small reptiles and mammals. Bite marks on contemporary herbivores like Sarahsaurus suggest Dilophosaurus may have preyed on these larger animals.
A prominent hypothesis suggests Dilophosaurus frequently included fish in its diet. Its jaw structure, particularly the reinforced front section and rosette of teeth, shares similarities with modern fish-eating animals like crocodilians and spinosaurids. The discovery of Dilophosaurus fossils near ancient waterways, such as Lake Dixie, further supports that aquatic creatures were a regular food source.
While primarily a hunter, Dilophosaurus likely also scavenged on carrion when the opportunity arose. Exploiting available food sources, including the remains of larger animals, would have been an advantageous feeding strategy. Its sharp teeth were effective for tearing flesh from both fresh kills and decaying carcasses.
Separating Fact from Fiction About Its Feeding Habits
Popular media has sometimes portrayed Dilophosaurus with abilities not supported by scientific evidence regarding its feeding and hunting methods. One widespread misconception is that Dilophosaurus could spit venom to blind its prey. There is no fossil or anatomical evidence to suggest Dilophosaurus possessed venom glands or specialized fangs for delivering venom. This concept is a creative invention from fiction.
Another common fictional depiction is an expandable neck frill used for intimidation or subduing prey. Like the venom-spitting ability, there is no scientific basis for a neck frill in Dilophosaurus. These features were artistic liberties taken to enhance its on-screen appearance.
Scientific understanding of Dilophosaurus’s diet and hunting relies solely on fossil evidence and detailed anatomical analysis. Paleontologists interpret its feeding habits by examining its teeth, jaw structure, and the context of its fossil discoveries, rather than speculative attributes. The real Dilophosaurus was a formidable predator of the Early Jurassic, whose true capabilities are revealed through rigorous scientific study.