In Which Amy Falls Behind in Recent Research…
Two days ago here on Dinopit I shared some of the “popular” theories on just why dinosaurs got to be so large. Not too long after posting I received a comment from a man that I greatly respect not only for his wealth of knowledge, but also because he actually gets to search for dinosaurs for a living. He was disappointed with my post because it overlooked the last 6 years of research in to the topic of dinosaur gigantism.
(As an aside, I feel the need to mention that spell check refuses to note the word gigantism as an actual word and instead insists on the use of “vigilantism.” I’m fairly certain however, that Sauropods were not vigilantes…at least not all of them.)
I was disappointed that I had fallen short in my post but it was then that I realized two things:
1) I am a freelance writer and blog designer by trade and should not be disappointed when I come up with limited knowledge on a topic. Instead I should take the opportunity to learn more about one of my favorite topics.
2) It was the perfect opportunity for me to invite someone else to share their dinosaur knowledge with my readers.
So that is just what I did and hopefully when Mr. Mallison (author of Dinosaur Palaeo) returns from his work in the field at the end of August he will be catching us all up on some of the most recent theories in why dinosaurs grew to such incredible proportions!
Recommended Reading
In the time being I will be checking out some recommended reading that he sent my way:
Biology of the Sauropod Dinosaurs
Biology of the sauropod dinosaurs: the evolution of gigantism
If you are interested in learning more about the evolution of gigantism in Sauropods check out these two recommended resources and hang tight for more on the subject from Heinrich Mallison at a later date!
Would You Like to Guest Post?
If you feel that you have dinosaur knowledge that you would like to share with DinoPit readers or if you feel I have neglected to mention any information on any dinosaur related topic feel free to contact me about guest posting.
Heinrich says
July 26, 2012 at 2:50 pmhey Amy, I really look forward to this! I’ve told the story many times, but never written it down in a version for laypeople.
Amy says
July 26, 2012 at 3:17 pmHeinrich,
I am just as excited to hear about all of the newest research from you first hand as well as any gems from your work in the field as I’m sure my readers are as well!