Tarbosaurus was a member of the dinosaur family of tyrannosaurids, which flourished during the Late Cretaceous. It is sometimes included in the genus Tyrannosaurus.

Although many specimens of this genus has been found, little definite data is confirmed on the dinosaur as of 1986, though it was presumed to share many characteristics with other tyrannosaurids. During studies of the animal, the upper jaw proved interesting, as it possessed more than 20 extremely large, knife-shaped teeth. The skull in general seems to have many similarities with its North American cousin, Tyrannosaurus rex, prompting many to place it in the Tyrannosaurus genus (the resulting designation would then be Tyrannosaurus bataar). The close similarities have also prompted some scientists to suggest a possible link between the North American and Eurasian continents at that time, perhaps in the form of a land bridge.

Only one species of Tarbosaurus, T. bataar, has been officially established.

Weight Not known, had lighter bones than Tyrannosaurus rex, thus likely less than 7 short tons (6 metric tons)

Length Varied from 33 to 46 feet (10-14 metres)

Height Varied from 14 feet, 6 inches to 20 feet (4.5-6 metres)

Found Mongolia

Period Late Cretaceous

Family tyrannosaurids

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