What is imperobator?

Imperobator antarcticus

Imperobator antarcticus is a genus of large, carnivorous theropod dinosaur known from the Late Cretaceous period of Antarctica. It is currently the only named theropod dinosaur from the continent other than Cryolophosaurus (which lived in the Early Jurassic).

Key Facts:

• Discovery: Fossils were discovered on James Ross Island, Antarctica.
• Age: Late Cretaceous (Late Maastrichtian stage), approximately 70 million years ago.
• Size: Estimated to be around 7-9 meters (23-30 feet) in length.
• Classification: Classified as a neovenatorid carcharodontosaurian theropod. This places it within a group of large, apex predators that were prevalent in the Cretaceous.

Significance:

• Paleobiogeography: Imperobator provides important insights into the distribution and evolution of theropods in the Southern Hemisphere during the Late Cretaceous. Its presence in Antarctica suggests that the continent was not as isolated as previously thought and that theropods were able to disperse between different landmasses.
• Paleoenvironment: The discovery of Imperobator helps to reconstruct the ancient ecosystem of Antarctica during the Late Cretaceous, which was significantly warmer than it is today and supported a diverse array of life.
• Description: It was a large predator with strong legs.