Triceratops

# Evolutionary Timeline of Triceratops Triceratops, a genus of herbivorous ceratopsid dinosaurs, evolved during the Late Cretaceous period. Their evolution was shaped by environmental pressures such as predation from large theropods, competition for resources, and changing climates in North America. Key ancestors include early ceratopsians like Psittacosaurus and Protoceratops, which migrated from Asia. ## Key Milestones - **Early Cretaceous (125-100 million years ago)**: Emergence of basal ceratopsians like Psittacosaurus in Asia, featuring primitive beaks and small frills, adapting to forested environments with diverse plant life. - **Mid-Cretaceous (100-85 million years ago)**: Development of protoceratopsids, such as Protoceratops, with enhanced frills and small horns, driven by increasing predation and the need for defense. - **Late Cretaceous (85-66 million years ago)**: Evolution of advanced ceratopsids like Triceratops in North America, characterized by large horns and elaborate frills, influenced by open floodplain habitats and confrontations with predators like Tyrannosaurus rex. - **End-Cretaceous Extinction (66 million years ago)**: Triceratops and other non-avian dinosaurs went extinct due to the asteroid impact and volcanic activity, marking the end of their lineage.