CAMARASAURUS

genus of sauropod dinosaurs in western North America during the Late Jurassic Period (163 to 144 million years ago). Camarasaurus fossils are the most commonly found of all sauropod remains. Camarasaurus was the type genus of the family Camarasauridae. Camarasaurs were somewhat smaller than other sauropods of the time, such as diplodocids and brachiosaurs, and grew up to a length of about 18 m (59 feet). Camarasaurs were further distinguished by their shorter necks and tails; higher, boxlike skulls; and large, spoon-shaped teeth.