Research Proposal Rough Draft

Alfredo J. Negron
Independent Research GT
2015-2016

Title:
Abelisaurs: Short Faced Predators of the Late Cretaceous
Introduction and Overview:
The area of investigation is the evolution of abelisaurs and their ecosystems. The
objective will be to find what caused these dinosaurs to evolve into physically
different builds. A data collection notebook will be used to evaluate and compare
abelisaur ecosystems. This will hopefully allow for a way to piece together ancient
ecosystems before the prehistoric specimens are uncovered.
Background and Rationale:
The abelisaurs were a group of theropod dinosaurs that first began to appear
in the Middle Jurassic Period. By the Late Cretaceous, they became the top
predators of many ecosystems. They are known primarily for their short, robust
heads, and their pathetically short and stubby arms. Many also possessed
ornamental horns on their heads, the use for which is still a mystery.
The abelisaurs and tyrannosaurs lived in the same time period, but they were
the top predators wherever tyrannosaurs didnt exist. While tyrannosaurs lived in
North America and Asia, abelisaur fossils have been found in South America, Africa,
Europe, India, and Madagascar. The most recognized of the group is Carnotaurus,
an abelisaur with two horns on its head, hence the name, meat-eating bull.
The research will be done simply to fuel curiosity. The results of this study
will help to piece together the lives of these animals, as well as their ecosystems.
Research Methodology:
Research Question:
Why did abelisaurs evolve to fit different physical builds?
Research Hypothesis:
They adapted to hunt specific types of prey. The abelisaurs have similar
ecosystems and environments, and there are cases where there are species of
multiple builds in the same ecosystem. Their environments and builds are also
similar to those of todays big cats.
Research Design Model:
A descriptive research method will be used to gather qualitative data. This model
was chosen because it applies to observing and evaluating the characteristics of
ecosystems. The variables being examined include the types of prey sources, the

specific biome (type of environment), other predators in the area, and physical build
of abelisaur (built for speed, strength, etc)
Data Collection:
A data collection notebook will be used for this research project. This was chosen
because it fits the type of data collection that will be done. Evaluating ecosystems
and their dinosaurs will be ideal for this method. Previous data will be evaluated,
and new conclusions will be drawn from this.
Product Objectives:
A journal article, or a summary of the results will be the product. It will be
presented to the scientific community, and it may provide a way to picture
prehistoric ecosystems before digging up the animals that lived there. The
outcomes will be presented through a conference or public event.
Logistical Considerations:
In order for there to be an effective presentation toward the scientific community,
access to National Geographic, or a college, or a conference will be required.
Permission from a scientist of this field will be needed as well.
Timeline:
In third quarter, a timeline will be added that outlines the data collection, product
development, and audience distribution.