What is glyptodone?
Glyptodon was a strongly armored ancient mammal that existed in the late Pleistocene, more than 10,000 years ago, and was hunted by pre -Columbian human populations. Glyptodones are classified as part of the Glyptodontidae family and belonged to the category of xenarthra mammals, which also includes modern belt, anti -tags and tree sloths. Specific species included Glyptodon Clavipes, Glyptodon Munizes, Glyptodon Perforaratus and Glyptodon Reticulatus. Glyptodons got its name from Greek for a "carved tooth". The fossils of glyptodones were found in the marshy areas of South America.
Glyptodones are known for their great size. Although they have a similar look to Armadillos, they were significantly larger about 10 feet (3 m) long. The size and weight of glyptodones is often compared with the Volkswagen Beetle®.
The glyptodon protective shell contained approximately 1,000 bones known as scutes or osteoderms, each of about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. On the underside of the body and the hind legsThere was another armor. The head of creature also represented a cap similar to the bone, because unlike the turtle, glyptodon was not able to insert the head under the protective shell. The ring of bone protrusions on the tail could serve as a weapon for self -defense against predators.
glyptodones were herbivores. It is not known whether they could have a suitcase similar to an elephant, perhaps indicated by the presence of muscle attaching in the nose. They were hunted by other creatures and humans. It is theorized that youthful glyptodones would be more vulnerable to predators' attack because their protective armor was not yet fully developed. In coarse weather, people could protect themselves under the shells of deceased glyptodones.
Glyptodon's closest relative that exists today is Armadillo whose name is Spanish for "small armored". There are 20 types of Armadillos, most of which inhabit Latin America. The exception is the nine zone Armadillo you findIn the American Armadillos, the only mammal is still existing, which has bony armor covering their tails, head, back and legs. The size of modern Armadillos ranges from 6 inches (15 cm) to 5 feet (1.5 m).
Armadillos is very poor, but have a highly developed sense of smell they use for hunting insects, fruit and some types of plants. Most Armadillo species are considered to be an endangered loss of habitat and excessive hunting. Armadillos can live up to 15 years in captivity.